P-26 - Innovative 3D Printed Traps: A Cost-Effective Solution for Mosquito Surveillance

Abstract: The Marin/Sonoma Mosquito and Vector Control District sets over 1,800 conventional EVS mosquito traps annually. These traps utilize carbon dioxide and a light source to attract adult mosquitoes. Collections are used to measure adult mosquito abundance and identify the presence of arboviruses. During the 2024 adult mosquito sureveillance season, staff evaluated the effectiveness of these traps compared with commercially available BG Pro (Biogents, Regensburg, Germany) traps. Upon identifying differences between these traps, staff designed two 3D printed traps: one incorporating the fan from the BG Pro and another using a widely available computer fan. Measurements from a Kestrel 1000 anemometer and field studies identified that all new traps functioned better than the original EVS CO₂ traps, despite the lack of a light source. The three new traps were comparable in their functionality, but the printed computer fan trap cost significantly less than the others. The development of these innovative 3D printed traps demonstrates a cost-effective and efficient alternative to commercially available traps.