Mosquitoes threaten our comfort and health, as they can transmit diseases like malaria, Zika, West Nile virus, and heartworm. Not to mention the irritation of a constant itch.

While traditional mosquito control methods often involve using insecticides that can harm beneficial insects and the environment, an effective alternative is using mosquito larva traps. These traps target mosquitoes in their larval stage, reducing the reliance on harmful chemicals. Fortunately, setting up a mosquito larva trap at home is a simple and efficient way to mitigate the mosquito population in your yard.

Why target the larval stage?

Targeting mosquitoes at the larval stage is more effective and environmentally friendly than spraying adult mosquitoes. When adult mosquitoes are targeted with improper applications of spray, the high concentrations of insecticides can kill a wide range of insects, including bees and butterflies. This disruption in the ecosystem can have cascading effects, as many birds and small mammals rely on these insects for food. By focusing on the larval stage, we can control mosquito populations without broader ecological impacts.

What is BTi?

BTi, or Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis, is a naturally occurring bacterium used in mosquito control products known as Mosquito Dunks. These dunks are donut-shaped briquettes that float on the surface of standing water where mosquitoes breed. When placed in water, the dunks release BTi spores ingested by mosquito larvae. The BTi bacteria produce toxins that specifically target the larvae's gut, disrupting their digestive processes and ultimately causing death. This method effectively reduces mosquito populations without harming other wildlife, pets, or humans.

BTi specifically targets mosquito and black fly larvae, making it safe for use around fish, birds, and other non-target organisms. Mosquito Dunks provide a long-lasting solution, as each dunk can be effective for up to 30 days in standing water, making them a popular choice for residential and commercial mosquito management.