Journal of Mosquito Research 2024, Vol.14, No.4, 204-214 http://emtoscipublisher.com/index.php/jmr 207 3.2 Physical barriers Physical barriers, such as insecticide-impregnated shade cloths and netting, provide a straightforward yet effective means of reducing mosquito-human contact. In a study on Key Island, Florida, insecticide-impregnated shade cloth targets were used alongside baited traps to create a barrier that reduced mosquito abundance in resort areas. The use of such barriers can be particularly effective in areas where chemical control methods are limited due to resistance or environmental concerns. Additionally, the SolarMal project incorporates physical barriers in the form of traps that prevent mosquitoes from entering human dwellings, thereby reducing the risk of malaria transmission (Hiscox et al., 2012). These barriers can be strategically placed around residential areas, recreational sites, and other high-risk zones to provide continuous protection against mosquito bites. 3.3 Mechanical removal techniques Mechanical removal techniques involve the direct capture and elimination of mosquitoes through various trapping methods. High-density trapping, for example, has been shown to be highly effective in rapidly reducing mosquito populations. A study on Puerco Island, Philippines, demonstrated the complete elimination of Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus mosquitoes within five months using odor-baited traps at a density of 10 traps per hectare. Another study in Korea employed mass trapping with digital mosquito monitoring systems and MOSHOLE-PRO units, resulting in a significant reduction in mosquito communities within the study area. These mechanical removal techniques offer a pesticide-free, environmentally friendly approach to mosquito control, making them suitable for use in sensitive natural areas and regions with high insecticide resistance. In summary, innovative physical and mechanical methods, including mosquito traps and attractants, physical barriers, and mechanical removal techniques, provide effective and environmentally sustainable alternatives to traditional chemical control methods. These approaches can be tailored to specific environments and mosquito species, offering versatile solutions for reducing mosquito populations and mitigating the spread of mosquito-borne diseases (Na and Kim, 2023). 4 Innovative Technologies in Mosquito Control 4.1 Drone-assisted mosquito surveillance and control Drones, or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), have emerged as a powerful tool in mosquito control, offering several innovative applications. One significant use is the aerial application of larvicides. For instance, a study demonstrated the effectiveness of drones in applying Aquatain Mosquito Formulation (AMF) to rice paddies, resulting in a significant reduction in mosquito larvae and pupae, with over 90% fewer emerging adults compared to control paddies (Figure 2) (Mukabana et al., 2022). Additionally, drones have been employed to release sterile male mosquitoes, ensuring homogeneous coverage and maintaining the quality of the released insects, which is crucial for the success of the sterile insect technique (SIT) (Hiscox et al., 2016). Furthermore, drones can be used for the automatic detection of potential mosquito breeding sites through aerial imagery, significantly enhancing the efficiency of vector control programs (Bravo et al., 2021). Mukabana et al. (2022) found that the use of the Agras MG-1 S drone for spraying arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) in rice paddies offers a precise and efficient method for applying different treatment doses across large agricultural areas. The study involved nine experimental paddies within the Cheju rice irrigation scheme, where control, low-dose, and high-dose AMF treatments were systematically applied. The controlled distribution of AMF using drone technology allowed for the careful monitoring of its impact on crop growth and soil health. The study highlights the potential of drone-assisted application in optimizing resource use while ensuring uniform treatment coverage, which is especially beneficial in regions like Unguja island in Zanzibar, where traditional farming methods may be less effective. This approach demonstrates significant advancements in sustainable agriculture practices by integrating modern technology with traditional crop management. 4.2 Automated mosquito trapping systems Automated mosquito trapping systems have shown promise in controlling mosquito populations by leveraging advanced technologies. The SolarMal project in Kenya implemented solar-powered mosquito trapping systems across households, aiming to suppress vector populations to levels where malaria transmission is no longer
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