Mosquito Gravid Trap
|
Reiter-Cummings Modified
Gravid Trap |
The
Gravid Trap is a plastic washbasin, filled with a liquid attractant (fondly
called "Mosquito Soup" - see ingredients at bottom of page). The
device on top draws air through a collection chamber (this is
important - the mosquito is not drawn through the fan,
preserving the specimen). Attracted by the stagnant water, a female mosquito
attempts to land on the water surface to lay her eggs. She is then drawn into
the collection chamber and trapped. CMMCP deploys
these traps throughout it's service area to monitor
viral activity. They are moved every third day to sample in as many locations
as possible. Once WNV activity is noted by Mass. DPH (usually through avian
mortality), CMMCP will respond by placing these traps in the immediate area. Mosquito
collections (called pools) are sent to the Mass. DPH State Lab.
Institute in Jamaica Plain. Notification of positive pools of mosquitoes is
given to the CMMCP office and local Board of Health by MDPH. The next
response will vary, according to MDPH guidelines, CMMCP recommendations and
local BOH desires. For more
information, please call our office at 508.393.3055 and ask to speak to our
Staff Entomologist, |
|
|
"Mosquito
Soup" - 114 liters well water
- 1/2 kilogram alfalfa hay, 5 grams brewers yeast, 5 grams lactalbumin
(malted milk powder) - mix thoroughly, set for 6 days. |
