Labyrinth for trapping and exterminating mosquito larvae

Abstract

The invention concerns an underwater trap for drowning mosquito larvae by direct immersion in their habitat (12). For this, the trap is equipped with several entrances (6) leading to an anoxic chamber (D) consisting of a series of compartments (A), (B), (C) that lead to a labyrinth. These compartments (A), (B), (C) communicate through a series of airlocks (1), (2), (3) in the form of a pyramid trunk, with gradually smaller exits (7), (8), (9). When submerged, it is suitable for trapping air bubbles, and the invention can improve the exhaust event by equipping the exhaust port (10) with a filter (11) or even manually expelling the trapped bubbles. This device, which does not require any attractants, chemicals, energy or any replenishment, is a means of destroying mosquito larvae in a biological and environmentally friendly way.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] (Technical scope of the present invention) The object of the present invention is a compact, thin aquatic trap for direct immersion in the breeding site of mosquito larvae, designed to capture the mosquito larvae and keep them in the water long enough to kill them by lack of air.

[0002] To achieve this, the traps are equipped with multiple niche entrances (6) to attract larvae by providing them with light and shelter from predators.

[0003] These entrances lead to a series of compartments (A), (B), and (C), which form an anaerobic labyrinth leading to a dead-end chamber (D).

[0004] To guide the larvae's progression, each compartment is connected via a horizontal pyramidal vestibule (1)(2)(3) that opens into the next compartment in the open sea, with successive exits (7)(8)(9) of progressively smaller dimensions until a dead-end chamber (D) is reached.

[0005] Since the internal shape of the trap is suitable for trapping air bubbles during immersion, the invention can be advantageously completed by a degassing system consisting of an air vent (10) fitted with a filter (11) as shown in FIG. 1, or by a micropump handled during installation, or by manually expelling the trapped air bubbles by closing the top lid of the trap underwater. (prior art)

[0006] There are approximately 3,000 species of mosquitoes, of which about 100 transmit diseases such as malaria, leishmaniasis, onchocerciasis, dengue fever, and yellow fever. In temperate climates, mosquitoes are more of a nuisance than a disease vector, but in tropical regions, mosquitoes cause significant morbidity and mortality, killing nearly 800,000 people worldwide each year.

[0007] Mosquito Life Cycle:

[0008] Mosquito development consists of four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and imago (adult).

[0009] Females usually mate only once in their lives, but after ingesting a blood meal, they lay eggs periodically throughout their lives, every few days. Depending on the species, females can lay anywhere from 30 to 300 eggs at a time. The eggs take 2-3 days to develop in tropical areas, but may take longer in temperate areas.

[0010] After hatching, the larvae do not grow continuously but go through four stages. In the first stage, they reach a body length of about 1.5 mm, and in the fourth stage, they reach a body length of about 8-10 mm. The larvae lack legs but have a distinct head and body covered with setae. Their characteristic "S" shaped, undulating body movements allow them to swim quickly through the water. They breathe using a siphon at the tip of their abdomen. At other times, they dive for short periods in search of food, which consists of yeast, bacteria and small aquatic organisms that live on the bottom of the nest. In warm climates, the larval stage lasts for 4-7 days, or longer if food is scarce.

[0011] Once the larvae have completed their development, they transform into nymphs, which are generally shaped like commas. Nymphs do not feed and spend most of their time at the surface of the water, but will quickly dive to the bottom if disturbed. When the nymphs reach adulthood, one end of the integument splits open to reveal a fully developed adult mosquito. In tropical regions, the pupal stage lasts from one to three days.

[0012] Under good conditions, the transition from egg to tuber takes 7 to 13 days.

[0013] Breeding area:

[0014] The most commonly chosen spawning sites are often shady and associated with vegetation such as upright plants, floating leaves, and algae, making ponds, seepage areas, calm inlets of slow-flowing rivers, rice fields, the axils of certain epiphytes, and rainwater pools likely to be nesting sites.

[0015] Deep artificial containers with raised edges, such as pots, tubs, tanks, and aquariums, are generally less suitable than shallow bodies of water or containers with sunken edges.

[0016] Mosquito control

[0017] As early as the 19th century, it was discovered that certain types of mosquitoes could transmit disease, and since there was no treatment available, it was thought that the only way to prevent infection was to eradicate the vectors.

[0018] Vector control is divided into two areas: the control of imagoes (adult mosquitoes) and the control of aquatic mosquito larvae.

[0019] Eradicating the Imago

[0020] As the control of mosquitoes by flying insects is not directly within the scope of this invention, we will limit ourselves to summarizing the existing means used against imagoes.

[0021] a) Protective clothing

[0022] The simplest defense against daytime mosquito bites is personal mechanical defense based on wearing appropriate clothing that is thick enough and soft enough to block the insect's bites. Legs can be protected by thick socks and long trousers. Long-sleeved shirts, fishing nets, veils, scarves and hats also provide some protection.

[0023] Imagos are generally less attracted to light colors than dark colors.

[0024] All clothing is treated with an insecticide or residual repellent.

[0025] These methods are effective in protecting against mosquitoes and, if used by a significant proportion of the population, can reduce disease transmission in a community.

[0026] b) Personal surface water repellents

[0027] It is the second most common method of preventing mosquito bites.

[0028] It can be applied directly to the skin, clothing, or fabrics such as mosquito nets, chemically limiting contact between humans and insects, and once applied, it can repel mosquitoes for anywhere from 15 minutes to up to 10 hours if applied to clothing.

[0029] Effectiveness and duration of action vary depending on the type of repellent, method of application, local conditions (temperature, humidity, wind, etc.), whether mosquitoes have a preference for certain people, and sweat loss.

[0030] c) Natural Environmental Repellents

[0031] The most classic and widespread are undoubtedly the citronella candles, but there are also other more or less organic products, sometimes "folk" ones, and even bracelets with essential oils that supposedly protect against mosquitoes.

[0032] In particular, because different species of mosquitoes have particular susceptibility to these drugs, many have never been scientifically studied and their effectiveness has yet to be confirmed.

[0033] d)Personal mosquito net

[0034] It has been used for a very long time to protect against all insects, including blood-feeding insects.

[0035] To prevent mosquitoes from entering, they are generally made of gauze or tulle with a mesh of 1.2-1.5 mm. In hot climates, such fine fabrics have the disadvantage of poor ventilation. Traditionally, linen, raffia, and hemp were used, but now they have been replaced by cotton and synthetic fibers such as nylon, polyester, and polyethylene. Mosquito nets come in a variety of sizes and models and should cover the entire person and leave enough space to avoid contact with the fabric.

[0036] Very large mosquito nets are also used in groups that customarily spend the night together, such as in Mauritania.

[0037] e) Spraying of chemical pesticides

[0038] More modernly, the active substance is dispersed through the air, repelling or killing the imagoes.

[0039] Available formats include insecticidal coils, spray pads, liquid dichlorvos diffusers, and manual or timed-use aerosol cans. These are relatively inexpensive products that can protect several people at a time, but are limited to use in poorly ventilated areas such as the home. Most are fast-acting shock insecticides, such as allethrin, which belongs to the pyrethroid family and acts to both repel and kill insects.

[0040] These compounds are considered safe for humans when used appropriately.

[0041] f) Ultrasonic electronic equipment

[0042] It has been on the market since the 1980s and produces high-frequency vibrations that repel mosquitoes by replicating the sounds made by males, and also has a repellent effect on mated females.

[0043] In addition, there are many smartphone apps on the Internet that claim to have a repellent effect based on ultrasonic emissions, but they have no actual effect.

[0044] Numerous scientific studies have shown that these devices are completely ineffective at preventing mosquito bites, and there have been several convictions for false advertising of these products.

[0045] g) Devices that use ultraviolet light

[0046] Ultraviolet mosquito coils have been around for a long time, and work on the principle that an ultraviolet lamp attracts insects when it is dark, either indoors or outdoors, and then shocks them with an electric arc when they come into contact with a high-voltage grid.

[0047] In the end, without any additional attraction other than UV light, it is very difficult to attract and kill the imagoes, so the overall effectiveness is only average. Yellow light bulbs are also available on the market that claim to repel them, but they are not based on precise physical principles.

[0048] h) Mosquito coils

[0049] The principle of using a high-voltage electric arc is also used in a racket-shaped "mosquito trap," initially fitted with a hopper containing woven conductive wires and powered by a small electronic multiplier battery assembly, which can literally "burn to death" targeted mosquitoes if the user has dexterity in touch with them.

[0050] These highly effective devices have a very limited range of action since they are limited by the arm length of the user.

[0051] Commercial success, driven by fierce competition between manufacturers and safety standards imposed by importing countries, led to models becoming increasingly sophisticated, both in terms of safety, with an external protective grid, and with more or less questionable improvements, such as rechargeable batteries, integrated lamps, bottle openers and even universal remote controls.

[0052] i) Suction Trap

[0053] Recently, indoor and outdoor mosquito traps that use electric suction have come onto the market, initially for commercial use.

[0054] To make these mosquito traps attractive, several types of lures are used, but they generally diffuse compounds that replicate human odors or directly diffuse CO2 to mimic human breathing.

[0055] Mosquitoes approaching the mouth of the trap will be sucked into a deadly electrocution or dehydration device. The location of this mosquito trap is very important, it should be placed near the mosquito migration area, on the ground, near vegetation, hedges, plants...etc.

[0056] Not all traps are created equal, and some are more effective than others, but some manufacturers promise to provide a sustainable, ecological reduction in mosquito populations in your yard by up to 85%.

[0057] These traps are very expensive, sometimes costing hundreds of euros, and require refilling with bait, often at full price, plus electricity. Some of these devices also offer the option to kill mosquitoes at both stages of their life cycle simultaneously, making them more effective at preventing mosquito reproduction.

[0058] j) House construction

[0059] In addition, fewer mosquitoes will invade stilt or two-storey homes, reducing attacks by adult mosquitoes that prefer to live close to the ground.

[0060] Similarly, the smaller and fewer openings in your home, the less access mosquitoes have.

[0061] In warmer climates, only modern, air-conditioned homes can be kept completely closed at night; otherwise, mosquito nets can be hung over door, window and other openings to allow air to circulate while keeping insects out.

[0062] There are also slow-release insecticidal paints for home use that appear to offer a solution to the problem of rapid insecticide breakdown on walls. They are latex or polyvinyl acetate based and can be sprayed or brushed onto walls.

[0063] k) Genetic manipulation

[0064] Finally, the latest development in the fight against mosquitoes: many laboratories and companies, mainly in the US, have been working for years on modifying the DNA of male or female mosquitoes, depending on the scenario, to make them sterile, thereby reducing the reproduction of vectors and eradicating the diseases they cause.

[0065] There are several competing approaches currently being tested in full-scale trials: either making males sterile so that once fertilized by a male, the female will ignore other males until she dies and lay only inert eggs, or modifying the males' DNA so that they can only become pregnant by other males, over many generations.

[0066] But in May 2020, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency authorized the first wild release of genetically modified mosquitoes in the wetlands of the Florida Keys.

[0067] l) In the event of an epidemic crisis

[0068] In these particular circumstances, it is essential that insecticides be applied outdoors without delay to rapidly reduce the adult mosquito population.

[0069] In urban areas, densely populated areas are commonly treated with chemical shock insecticides.

[0070] In wetlands, such treatment can also be accomplished using backpack-mounted foggers or larger machines mounted on wheeled vehicles or aircraft.

[0071] Eliminate mosquito larvae

[0072] Once natural or artificial breeding sites have been located, eradicating mosquito larvae is generally easier and less costly than controlling the seasonally emerging adults.

[0073] Unlike controlling mosquitoes, controlling larvae does not have an immediate effect on the number of biting mosquitoes, and it takes several weeks for the number to be significantly reduced. There are several ways to control larvae:

[0074] a) Environmental change

[0075] For centuries, the most widely used method of controlling larvae has been the drainage of swamps and other natural bodies of water that served as breeding grounds, but more recently reclamation and other measures have been implemented in many areas and have played an important role in reducing vector-borne diseases.

[0076] These measures, which alter the site through filling, excavation or underground drainage, are of a permanent nature and therefore blend in with the changing environment.

[0077] b) Environmental planning

[0078] Environmental improvements differ from transformations in that they are temporary and must be repeated periodically.

[0079] The most important developments have been hunting through fluctuating water levels, for example through intermittent irrigation, and de-ballasting, a one-time large influx of water that sweeps the eggs and larvae up the banks.

[0080] In addition, a forecourt gate connected to seawater can be used to change the salinity of the water, brighten the vegetation on the banks, and remove aquatic plants to improve the flow of the waterway.

[0081] c) Past chemical larvicidal control

[0082] These ancient healing methods are the polar opposite of natural, ancestral, mechanical, environmental methods.

[0083] The first chemical larvicides were used on breeding sites in the late 19th century, using a thin film of petroleum oil spread over the entire surface and a powder of the arsenic derivative Schweinfurt Green (also known as Paris Green) to kill the larvae.

[0084] Both products kill the larvae very quickly by asphyxiation and poisoning from toxic vapors, but their effects last only a few hours to a few days.

[0085] This method was used until the discovery of DDT (dichlorodiphenyldichloroethane) in 1940. This inexpensive product was very effective against mosquitoes in the home, sprayed on the walls of the house and remained effective for several months. In the 50s and 60s, very expensive DDT spraying programs were organized to eradicate the most important vector-borne diseases and to prevent the spread of mosquitoes - malaria, Chagas disease, leishmaniasis, etc. These short-term eradication programs were very successful, but they were short-lived, as mosquitoes developed resistance to the insecticides, forcing us to rely on ever more expensive new products. Moreover, these insecticides accumulated in animal and plant tissues, so they practically fell out of use.

[0086] Petroleum oils are still used on a small scale, as they are of particular interest where mosquitoes have become resistant to insecticides and where other measures such as the use of predatory fish or site management by draining and filling are not possible. Moreover, these diesel oils are widely available, making them interesting for small-scale use, especially if they are natural -castor oil, palm oil...-.

[0087] When used properly, these larvicidal oils are non-toxic to fish, birds and mammals.

[0088] d) Synthetic Chemical Larvicide Treatment

[0089] Finally, for economic reasons, other chemical larvicides are often preferred over oils, primarily the organophosphate larvicides (temephos, fenthion, chlorpyrifos), carbamate larvicides, and less residual pyrethroid larvicides.

[0090] Pyrethroid insecticides should not be used in the wild because they are highly toxic to crustaceans and fish. These products disappear within a day, with the exception of organophosphates, which persist for much longer.

[0091] Depending on the product form, the release of the active ingredient is more or less rapid.

[0092] e) Bacterial larvicides

[0093] When mosquitoes are resistant to all chemical larvicides, we use bacterial larvicides, which are in the form of slow-release briquettes that float and slowly release their active ingredient to the ground, making them better than any other insecticide.

[0094] These larvicides are sold in powder form with a dispersant, and also in concentrated suspension formulations, which are liquid insecticides mixed with water to create a sprayable suspension.

[0095] There are also concentrated emulsifiable insecticides that are mixed with an emulsifier and applied directly to the water surface or sprayed. Granules or pellets are also available, in which the insecticide is applied or impregnated onto sand or absorbent.

[0096] The chemicals are generally applied by hand, using buckets to pour the liquid onto the surface of the nest, and in most tropical areas, spraying is repeated every one to two weeks.

[0097] f) Growth regulators

[0098] These are chemical compounds that inhibit the development of larvae and pupae.

[0099] The adult stage is only slightly toxic to mammals, birds, fish, and insects, but is highly toxic to crustaceans and other aquatic arthropods.

[0100] Although expensive, they are particularly effective when the target insects have become resistant to organophosphate larvicides. They decompose quickly in the environment and are applied in granular, microcapsule or briquette form, remaining effective for several weeks.

[0101] g) Biological control

[0102] Finally, when it is not possible to modify the environment to prevent vectors from returning to natural oviposition sites, biological control is the only sustainable solution, given insect familiarity with chemical products and increasing environmental constraints.

[0103] Biological control is based on the use of living organisms, or biologically derived products or technologies, that are capable of killing mosquito larvae without polluting the environment.

[0104] These mainly involve the introduction of parasites, viruses, bacteria such as Bacillus thurigiensis H-14, protozoa, nematodes, fungi, or predators such as annelid copepod crustaceans, Toxorhynchites, dragonflies, and larvae-eating fish into the mosquito biotope, all of which are highly effective.

[0105] The use of plants such as Azadirachta indica and Azolla, or other fast-growing floating plants, can also be used as biological measures to eliminate spawning sites.

[0106] h) Larvae trap

[0107] Fewer larvae means fewer adult insects to eliminate.

[0108] Commercially available traps are egg-laying traps, which attract female mosquitoes that are about to lay eggs into a bucket-shaped device that provides an ideal space for the mosquito larvae to develop.

[0109] Manufacturers sell special additives that can be added to water-filled traps, making them very attractive to mosquitoes looking for a place to lay eggs, sometimes laying hundreds of eggs at a time.

[0110] Depending on the trap model, females are captured before they lay eggs or larvae are held in a vertical basket system consisting of a divider inside a bucket.

[0111] These traps have a high success rate, reported by some manufacturers as high as 99%, but it is important to remember that these results only count larvae born within the trap, not those born in natural breeding sites possibly a few metres away.

[0112] This type of vertical bucket trap is believed to be closest to the invention of this patent application, and its operating principle will be discussed in detail in the "Invention Disclosure" section of this document for comparison with the invention.

[0113] i) Eliminating clear water breeding sites Outdoors, particular attention should be paid to drinking troughs, wells, ponds and puddles. Around residential areas, containers that temporarily collect water after a rainstorm can become breeding sites for mosquitoes for several days or weeks before drying out again.

[0114] To combat this scourge, breeding sites for the larvae - various containers, old tires and other rubbish dumps, plants and all sorts of objects - need to be eliminated or protected from the weather or covered.

[0115] Common indoor breeding sites include vases, saucers under houseplants, ant traps (bowls of water placed under the feet of family sentinels), aquariums, containers and water tanks.

[0116] The main advice is to avoid overfilling flower pots with water, change the water in vases frequently, and add a layer of salt or oil to the water in ant traps, or replace the water with oil.

[0117] Other small, enclosed habitats that may be used for outdoor breeding should preferably be provided with screens or removable covers to prevent access by adult mosquitoes without compromising water quality or impeding the addition or removal of water.

[0118] These strategies to reduce mosquito breeding grounds require large-scale, long-term community health education efforts.

[0119] j) Treatment of wastewater breeding sites

[0120] Ditches, marshes and channels containing stagnant water and organic waste are natural breeding grounds for polluted water. In addition to draining marshes, backfilling ditches and ponds, installing drainage channels and semi-permanent measures, it is necessary to regularly clear the banks of ponds and streams and clean waterways.

[0121] Man-made polluted water breeds in separate sanitary facilities such as drains, latrines, septic tanks, pits and stagnant water.

[0122] The only way to combat mosquito larvae in the long term is to design and build these structures according to state-of-the-art engineering methods, with sufficient cover to prevent the insects from entering or leaving.

[0123] k) Other methods of destruction

[0124] Natural imperfections such as ponds, tree holes, hollows in the ends of fence posts, gutters, etc. should be regularly swept out or filled with sand or other material.

[0125] Where the above measures are not applicable, spraying of oil, chemical larvicides or polystyrene beads to completely cover the water surface may be considered.

[0126] Finally, if no other satisfactory methods are available, spray the breeding site with an effective and safe larvicide.

[0127] What we need to do is reduce breeding sources to prevent mosquitoes from breeding in and around our homes.

[0128] Killing the larvae protects homes close to breeding sites, but if there are other breeding sites nearby, mosquitoes will continue to breed.

[0129] Overall, these preventive measures are the most effective and economical way of reducing vector densities by destroying breeding sites provided by natural or artificial receptacles.

[0130] The present invention provides a compact, low profile aquatic trap (on the order of 1 cm in height) for direct immersion into mosquito breeding sites, designed to capture larvae and drown them by holding them in the water for a long enough time. To achieve this, the invention comprises a flat, multi-level creel made up of a series of compartments (A), (B), (C) that form an anaerobic labyrinth that directs the larvae to a dead-end chamber (D).

[0131] The perimeter of the present invention has multiple niche entrances (6) designed to capture larvae by providing easily accessible hiding places that are protected from light and predators.

[0132] These niche-like entrances give access to a series of compartments (A), (B), (C) interconnected by truncated pyramidal vestibules (1), (2), (3) with a horizontal rectangular base to guide the larvae's progression. These vestibules (1), (2), (3) open strategically to the next compartment at full water level, with exits (7), (8), (9) decreasing in size until the final dead-end chamber (D) is reached.

[0133] This succession of vestibules (1), (2), (3) allows for staged capture, providing multiple entrances (6) and very small exits (9). The entire system forms a flat labyrinth that directs the larvae with increasing difficulty towards a final asphyxiation chamber (D) with no exit.

[0134] Since the internal shape of the trap is suitable for trapping air bubbles during immersion, it is advantageous to reinforce the device with a degassing system consisting of an air vent (10) fitted with a filter (11) as shown in Figure 1, or with a removable cover (16) for manual evacuation of air bubbles by operating underwater during installation as shown in Figures 3, 4 and 6. Since the invention is anaerobic, the larvae (12) cannot find an exit due to the special shape of the inclined triangular pyramidal vestibule (1)(2)(3) and suffocate to death within a few hours in the dead-end chamber (D).

[0135] Due to its compact shape, the invention can be inserted directly into any size and shape of container, whether natural or man-made, shallow or stationary on the ground, such as flower vases, potted planters, gutters, drains, manholes, and other habitual locations, including difficult to access places...

[0136] For larger water volumes, multiple evenly distributed devices can be used to ensure greater efficiency.

[0137] The present invention is a novel "mechanical" biological means of combating the proliferation of mosquito larvae, proposing a natural capture and destruction of the parasites by drowning, thus providing an entirely new technique for vector control of diseases transmitted by these insects.

[0138] This invention, based on hydrodynamic and statistical principles, is ecologically neutral as it uses no food, no chemicals, no energy and does not require any replenishment, therefore it is a completely clean means of destruction. (Technical issues)

[0139] Mosquito larvae are notoriously difficult to capture, with record-breaking apnea times of several hours while they methodically explore traps, a forward and backward swimming habit, a desperate flight reflex in all directions when threatened, the ability to breathe in the smallest available air bubble, and an uncanny knack for escaping through the tiniest of gaps.

[0140] For this escape champion larva, the four locomotor modes linked to its behavior are necessary to measure the technical problems of capture and, consequently, to understand how the invention works.

[0141] a) Front “Vertical” Dive:

[0142] When calm, the larvae move between the surface and the bottom of the container, where they hang upside down for a few minutes to breathe vertically, before settling down horizontally. The transition between the two positions is slow, as they sink headfirst to the bottom, where they settle quietly.

[0143] On the other hand, from a horizontal position on the bottom, it slowly takes off first with its tail and then with its head, then rises in a vertical position directly to the surface of the water.

[0144] It's a very energy-efficient form of transportation, which makes it extremely effective for long periods of apnea.

[0145] b) "Horizontal" forward search:

[0146] Once placed on the bottom of the breeding site, the larvae press their head against the bottom and tilt their body forward several degrees as they move forward.

[0147] It's a swimming mode that allows them to not only sweep the entire breeding site in search of food or enter horizontally through the base of the trap, but also methodically search for an exit if they are captured.

[0148] c) Backwards "horizontal" swimming:

[0149] The larvae can energetically undulate their bodies in a characteristic "S" shape, propelling them forward several centimetres from their starting point in just a few movements.

[0150] The vibration frequency is around 0.5 Hz in adults, and increases as the larvae become smaller.

[0151] The larvae often move parallel to the bottom or toward the surface.

[0152] Note that as a result, the overall movement is always reversed, i.e. tail leading.

[0153] This horizontal swimming is deliberate, not only to get away from a bright light source or simply to change feeding grounds, but also to simply turn back if the larvae get stuck in what appears to be a one-way street, for example because the trap entrance is too narrow.

[0154] d) Back Panic Stroke:

[0155] The naturally fearful larvae perform frenzied, high-frequency "horizontal" S-shaped swimming movements when alerted by vibrations in the air or surrounding water, or to get out of a sticky situation, before launching into a blind, cluttered flight in the opposite direction to danger to quickly escape a predator.

[0156] This panicky behaviour is swarming and the more numerous and disorganised the larvae are, the more agitated the entire colony becomes.

[0157] The frequency of the fleeing ripples reaches 10 Hz in the smallest larvae and 3-5 Hz in adults.

[0158] It is by this swimming technique that the larvae are able to escape from enclosed spaces, scanning every possible internal volume and usually rapidly exhausting all permutations until they find an exit.

[0159] It is easy to see how a larva with such reflexes and abilities could find a way to escape from a simple trap, especially one that is small, has limited volume, and is therefore quickly explored.

[0160] Furthermore, this "tail-first" swimming behaviour gives the animal the ability to sense objects in the direction it is moving (i.e. against it) by contacting the setae that cover its body, and then quickly slip into and take refuge in a potential exit or hideout.

[0161] The setae that cover the larva's body allow it to perfectly gauge the size of the passageway as it moves forward, knowing how far to penetrate if it is large enough, and knowing when to turn back if it is too narrow. Therefore, the proposed trap for forward exploration should have an entrance large enough to penetrate without contact.

[0162] Beyond the constraint that trapping larvae requires an entrance larger than the size of the larvae to be captured, traps with internal volumes proportional to the size of the larvae to be captured are required to statistically prevent the larvae from easily finding the entrance or exit by methodical exploration.

[0163] WO2004028248A1 patent: "BioAquaLab Mosquito Larvae Trap" patent "METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR INSECTELIMINATION BY LARVES TRAPPING", which has been on the market for several years, perfectly illustrates these limitations. It should be noted that this trap is designed to capture larvae during the "vertical" shuttle between surface respiration and bottom feeding and is therefore based on the principle of a vertical creel.

[0164] Unfortunately, commercial traps must be vertical and are statistically constrained by their large swim size and large opening, making them incompatible with the majority of natural mosquito breeding sites, which prefer to lay their eggs in shallow water or in containers of that size.

[0165] For this reason, larva-trap manufacturers offer devices consisting of a trapping container, usually in the form of a plastic bucket, fitted with a more or less elaborate internal vertical mesh mechanism.

[0166] These "classical" traps are therefore not traps for treating invading water, but rather "trap containers" whose purpose is to provide an ideal environment for mosquitoes to lay eggs and then to kill the larvae.

[0167] These systems are designed to limit the number of eggs laid in natural breeding areas, with the assumption that the majority of hatching will occur in these nesting traps.

[0168] In addition to the fact that these traps require maintenance (e.g., refilling attractive chemicals, cleaning, checking levels), these traps do not treat existing natural larval breeding sites, so it is difficult to comprehensively evaluate the effectiveness of treatments, only targeting eggs laid within the traps.

[0169] In the end, one wonders if the high statistics posted by sellers of this type of product are indicative of the effectiveness of mosquito breeding rather than of any measures to combat it. Technical Solutions

[0170] The present invention provides a solution to this problem in the art by treating "natural" spawning sites directly at the source, as it does not aim to attract females to artificial sites.

[0171] In addition, because the invention is based primarily on the horizontal swimming behavior of the larvae, it is possible to build compact traps that are very thin (less than 1 cm thick) and do not include a container of deposition water, and are designed to be entirely immersed directly in the bottom of the natural water or shallow reservoir to be treated.

[0172] Indeed, in the present invention, the entrance orifice (6) forms a flared niche to take advantage of the life and swimming behaviour of the larvae, facilitating their entry into the trap, i.e.:

[0173] -To search for prey, they scan the bottom of the water to skim off nutrients essential for their development, then tilt their horizontal body forward several degrees, place their head on the ground, and search the entire interior of the trap from the entrance of the niche (6).

[0174] Although they are able to stay still at the surface, breathe vertically, and even dive vertically without much movement, their instinct to move towards shade and their need to feed periodically lead them to resort to "horizontal" swimming, often swimming parallel to the bottom of the nest, down an oblique slope, so that they enter the trap backwards through one of the trap entrance niches (6).

[0175] - Finally, their sensitivity and responsiveness to movement, vibrations, air currents, changes in light, and other warning signals causes them to quickly dive to the bottom and then slide sideways towards the walls until they find refuge under an object or in one of the recessed entrances of the trap (6).

[0176] At this stage, once they have entered the trap's opening (6), they use these same vital and swimming reflexes to navigate through the various compartments of the trap (A), (B), and (C):

[0177] - Explore the compartment with forward motion, tilt the horizontal body a few degrees, place the head on the ground and calmly explore the floor of the cell until it drops down onto the gentle slope of the underside of the truncated pyramid of the vestibule (1)(2)(3) that leads to the exit (7)(8)(9) to the next compartment.

[0178] - The backward "horizontal" swimming style is also used when exploring the compartments, trying to swim in all directions. The natural inclination of a few degrees of this swimming style causes the larvae to naturally bump into the high or low edges of the compartment, especially when the trap height is reduced, and the gentle slope of the underside of the pyramidal trunk induces the larvae to exit in the opposite direction through the vestibule (1), (2) or (3) towards the next compartment.

[0179] - As the lack of air worsens and pressure increases, the animal becomes stressed, resulting in rapid horizontal rotations and "panic" swimming backwards around the top or bottom of the compartment, methodically searching every corner it comes across for a possible exit, inevitably slipping through the vestibule (1), (2) or (3) into the next compartment.

[0180] In these circumstances, the larva displays a real talent for desperately swimming backwards and then slipping its tail into the local opening, "forcing" its way into the last compartment.

[0181] -These three behaviors make it highly unlikely that the larvae will find the entrance to a mid-cell compartment in the open sea, while the exit preferred by the pyramidal profile lying between the base and the ceiling of the cell is logically more accessible.

[0182] Indeed, their inability to reverse course and accurately aim in their chosen direction, combined with their inability to place their tails at a precise point in the compartment space, and in full water conditions, demonstrate the great difficulty they would have had in surfacing through the entrance they used.

[0183] Furthermore, because it is unable to swell forward, it is pushed back by the energetic swell of its tail and is unable to forcefully enter the passage it previously used headfirst.

[0184] The invention therefore systematically features a compartment with an inlet for water from the previous compartment and a small outlet for the next compartment, located at the end of an inclined pyramid between the ceiling and the bottom of the compartment.

[0185] The volume and shape of the compartments vary and do not correspond to a mathematical formula, but it is a good idea to reduce the internal volume to encourage the larvae to pass more rapidly through the more difficult levels and make it more difficult for them to use an entrance to escape from them.

[0186] The final dead-end suffocation chamber (D) logically has the smallest entrance (9). This final chamber should also have the most water to swim in, to further reduce the chances of tripping on one of the entrances that provide a way out.

[0187] It is amazing to watch the adult worms, which are 6 to 10 mm in length and 1 to 1.5 mm in diameter, passing through openings smaller than a millimeter in size, tail first, and then sliding through, undulating their bodies with great force.

[0188] The sizes of the exits (7), (8), and (9) of the vestibules (1), (2), and (3) are calculated from the largest trap entrance opening to the dead-end chamber with the smallest entrance (9).

[0189] Considering that this change in magnitude is linear, the formula to be applied in the calculation of the vestibular exit, both in the vertical and horizontal directions, respects the order Un of the general term Un, defined as follows:

[0190] Un=a.n+b

[0191] Where:

[0192] -Un represents the characteristic dimension of the opening;

[0193] -a is the strictly positive directional coefficient of the line, chosen to increase the difficulty of return, taking into account the maximum size of the larvae measured, the percentage of ease of entry into the trap (corresponding to the extra space around the larvae at the opening), and the total number of vestibules passing through the trap, depending on the size and shape of the trap;

[0194] -n is the vestibule number starting from the suffocation chamber.

[0195] -b represents the characteristic dimension of the entrance opening to the final dead-end chamber and is determined to allow irreversible passage of larvae of the maximum size targeted by the trap, taking into account the life span of the larvae.

[0196] It should be noted that this model for calculating the size of the vestibule outlet, which applies in both height-width dimensions, is not relevant for the trap entrance, as it does not take into account the position-dependent size changes as the larvae enter.

[0197] To allow maximum accessibility, traps made according to the invention should have as large an entrance as possible, generally open all around the perimeter so that they abut the bottom of the enclosure.

[0198] Depending on the freedom of shape, internal structure and number of compartments, labyrinths of any shape and size can be created.

[0199] By geometrically combining and relating these compartments, it is possible to gradually reduce the number of vestibules to the asphyxiation chamber. Benefit details

[0200] -Based on statistical observations of larvae behavior and scientific studies of their swimming process, this invention does not require any lures, attractive or lethal chemicals, it simply exploits the loopholes and lack of natural larval movement and escape reflexes to trap the larvae by keeping them in the water long enough to drown them.

[0201] - The invention is composed of a series of compartments, which form a labyrinth that can be replicated and combined to form traps of any size and shape suited to the breeding vessel of the larvae of interest. In fact, the principles of the invention are versatile enough to be adapted to any type of water vessel, due to the infinite modular configurations.

[0202] - The dimensions of the vestibule outlet and the volume of the compartment can be increased or decreased depending on the species and maturity of the larvae being targeted.

[0203] - Fully submerged, this invention is invisible from the surface and therefore does not detract from the interior of your garden or home, making it very unobtrusive and beautiful.

[0204] The extremely compact invention can be integrated directly into any container, such as a downspout (Figure 2), a garden basin or basin (Figure 7), an ornamental vase or flowerpot (Figure 10), or an animal water trough.

[0205] Apart from this solution to the problem of capturing and holding the larvae in the trap, it must be said that the immersion of such objects and the aim of rapid death are complicated by the fact that the trap must be completely anaerobic, that is, there must be no air bubbles that could cause suffocation.

[0206] The larvae can breathe for days inside the bubbles, which are trapped in a maze of interconnected compartments.

[0207] This feature gives rise to two variants of the invention:

[0208] 1) A first variant is to take advantage of this property by keeping the larvae captured in the trap alive, allowing the invention to be used as a fisheries or live sampling tool (such as quantifying larval population samples for fisheries, scientific or statistical purposes), by intentionally leaving air in the dead-end chamber to allow the larvae to breathe for a while inside the trap.

[0209] 2) The second variant is aimed at drowning the larvae, in which case the invention features an active "gas venting" system when the trap is installed on the water bottom. The pyramidal shape of the trap naturally generates a flow of gas towards the surface, allowing most of the air bubbles to escape. The upper surface of the trap can be vented, the openings of which are blocked by a filter of porous material such as tulle, gauze, lattice, etc. In this way, it is possible to prevent the gas from seeping out to the surface and at the same time prevent the larvae from escaping the trap through these outlets.

[0210] This type of automatic degassing trap will therefore be effective as long as water is present in the enclosure and will operate again as soon as water returns after a period of drying.

[0211] Alternatively, venting the trap can be done simply manually by closing the trap cover (16) under water after removing trapped air, which is sufficient for certain home applications such as window boxes, flower vases, houseplant pots, etc. (Figures 2 and 4). (Summary of the invention)

[0212] The object of the invention is a compact, thin-walled aquatic trap, with multiple inlets leading through a series of compartments, through vestibules with openings of decreasing size, in the form of a truncated pyramid with a horizontal rectangular base, to a dead-end suffocation chamber, opening into the open water of the next compartment; a.Its features are: i.-The inlet forms a niche on the periphery of the underside of the trap, preferably flush with the bottom surface. ii.- One or more labyrinths consisting of a series of one or more internal compartments leading to one or more anaerobic chambers without an exit for asphyxiation; 1. Its features include: a.- Compartments chained one after the other. b.- From a truncated pyramidal vestibule with a rectangular horizontal base between the compartments that compose the compartment, to one or more anaerobic chambers without an outlet for asphyxiation, with an outlet that systematically opens into the next compartment at full water level and decreases in dimensions. iii.- One or more anaerobic chambers without an outlet for asphyxiation 1. Its features include: a.- Make the entrance aperture as small as possible relative to the size of the target animal. b.- Minimize the inlet openings. c.- The internal volume should be as large as possible to prevent the larvae from tripping over the entrance and using it as an exit point. b. Advantageously, the present invention may also be characterized in that it may include a "degassing" device for removing the air bubbles which are inevitable given the complex internal geometry of the invention, the purpose of which is to prevent the larvae from breathing for days through trapped air bubbles at the risk of eventually finding an exit. It is characterized in that it can include: 1. A filter is attached to prevent larvae from escaping from the trap. 2. Alternatively, a removable cover; made of porous material that allows gas to escape or that can be closed underwater after manually venting the air from the trap to the surface. 3. Alternatively, a manual micropump, preferably a diaphragm pump, can be used to expel air bubbles from the trap under pressure. c. The invention consists of a series of compartments forming a labyrinth in which the larvae can be captured. Advantageously, this replicated labyrinth allows the formation of traps of any size and shape, associated and combined, to suit the intended larval deposit receptacle. This combination organization allows the device to be adapted to any type of water receptacle, and even allows the invention to be directly integrated into the body of the receptacle or object likely to be a breeding site for the larvae (Figure 10).

[0213] The object of the present invention is therefore a system designed to regulate the population of harmful larvae in a completely natural and biological way, since according to the invention, it does not involve the use of electrical or mechanical energy, nor any chemical or supplemental agents.

[0214] Finally, the invention may also be applied to a device for collecting live aquatic larvae directly from their breeding grounds, for aquarium, scientific, statistical or any other purpose, provided that it is used according to the invention without evacuating the air inside when placed on the bottom of the breeding ground. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0215] The invention will be better understood on reading the following description and on examining the accompanying figures, the latter of which are presented for illustrative purposes and which in no way limit the scope of the invention.

[0216] [Figure 1]FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a preferred embodiment of the invention, in the form of a minimal larva trap with a very simple base, equipped with the advanced means of the invention and intended as a technical demonstration of the operation of a device according to the principles of the invention.

[0217] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the traps are deposited on the bottom of the larval breeding grounds to form a "bottom trap", this application is in no way limiting and the traps can be fitted with floats for use on the surface, fixed to the bottom at height for open sea use where it is more suitable for certain larval species, or for other specific applications.

[0218] The elements that make up the present invention are clearly shown in this diagram: Four niche entries (six), that is, three vertical and one horizontal above the trap in this preferred mode. A maze consisting of three cascade compartments (A), (B), and (C). A series of vestibules (1), (2), (3) are pyramidal in shape with a horizontal rectangular base, opening strategically to the open sea, decreasing in size on both the horizontal and vertical axes, and having outlets (7), (8), (9) offset laterally from one another. A large-volume anaerobic dead-end asphyxiation chamber (D) has the smallest possible inlet (9). The vent (10) for air bubbles trapped when the device is placed on the bottom of the water is fitted with a filter (11) to prevent larvae from escaping through this opening. For clarity, the figure also shows the hypothesis that the larvae (12) move from the outside to the inside of the trap.

[0219] [Diagram 2] 2 is a schematic 3D perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the invention in the form of a parallelepiped with a square base of 80 mm sides and 8 mm thickness, which is placed at the bottom of the larvae pile and provides an inlet (6) open all around for optimal access. For example, this type of trap can be placed evenly at the bottom of a rain gutter to directly control mosquito larvae.

[0220] [Diagram 3] Figure 3 shows a schematic 3D perspective exploded view of the preferred embodiment of Figure 2 to reveal its configuration and internal organization into compartments forming a labyrinth. The various compartments (A), (B), (C) and (D), vestibules (1), (2) and (3) as described in Figure 1, and outlets (7), (8) and (9) of decreasing size are clearly visible.

[0221] [Figure 4] 4 is a schematic 3D perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a mosquito larvae trap made of ABS type hard plastic. This manual gas release trap is disk-shaped with a diameter of 120 mm and a thickness of 10 mm, designed to be placed between a pot of a houseplant and a saucer filled with water, and is fitted with the improvements of the present invention. In accordance with the principles of the present invention, a wide, removable top cover is fitted to close the trap underwater after the air inside the trap has been evacuated from above. The width of this cover covers the upper entrance of the trap, thus preventing the entrance compartment from being clogged by soil particles from the flowerpot.

[0222] [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 shows a top view and half-section of the two assembled main parts of the preferred embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 4, revealing its organization, construction and inner workings, in particular the sequence of the trap compartments (A), (B) and (C) and dead-end chamber (D), the vestibules (1), (2) and (3) and the outlets of decreasing size (7), (8) and (9) in accordance with the principles of the invention.

[0223] [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a schematic exploded three-dimensional perspective view of all the parts that make up the preferred embodiment of the present invention shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

[0224] [Figure 7]FIG. 7 is a schematic 3D perspective view of a preferred embodiment and application of the present invention for use with a thin-walled container of any shape filled with water.

[0225] [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of a preferred variant of the trap shown in figures 4, 5 and 6, but made of a biodegradable hard plastic of the PLA type. This variant is optimized for automatic installation, thanks to the elastic closure of the top cover, which is held in the open position by a spacer made of a PVA type plastic that dissolves in water in a few hours. This version of the preferred embodiment of the invention is designed to be simply dumped at the bottom of the swamp or other infested natural place to be treated, and is completely biodegradable and, by virtue of the completed means of the invention, does not pose any risk of contamination.

[0226] [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows a schematic diagram of the spacer of the preferred embodiment of the trap shown in Figure 8, which is made from a PVA type plastic that is water soluble within a few hours. As with the trap body shown in Figure 8, this variant of the preferred embodiment of the invention is completely biodegradable and therefore poses no risk of contamination.

[0227] [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a schematic 3D perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the realization and use of the invention integrated directly into the manufacture of a product likely to be a breeding site for larvae. In this preferred embodiment of the invention, it is integrated into the base of an ornamental plant pot and its water-holding tray. This preferred embodiment not only avoids this major domestic breeding site for larvae, but also transforms it into a tool for the destruction and control of mosquito proliferation by destroying the larvae directly at the source, according to the principles of the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0228] (Detailed explanation) FIG. 1 shows a preferred "minimal" embodiment of the invention, in which the compartments, when placed end to end, form a maze that can perform the overall function of trapping and drowning aquatic mosquito larvae.

[0229] The first part of the invention consists of an inlet (6) shaped and sized in proportion to the larvae (12) that the trap is intended to target.

[0230] Although these openings are generally located around the perimeter of the trap, depending on the target species, they can be located higher or lower to best suit the target larval behavior, and can also be located at multiple heights, such as in Figure 1, where there is one at the top of the trap, or in Figure 4, where there is a marker (6) around the perimeter and a marker (15) at the same height as the bottom.

[0231] These trap entrances are flared to facilitate entry and are shaped and sized to accommodate the swimming motion of the larvae upon entry.

[0232] Also, as shown in Figures 4, 5 and 8, the hole (6) is generally rectangular in shape and is located in the middle of the trap, horizontally and straight forward, as the target mosquito larvae are accustomed to entering with a forward motion during their feeding process.

[0233] The entrance hole of the niche (15) in Fig. 4 is a large oblong rectangle located at the very bottom of the edge of the trap, so that the mosquito larvae can take refuge there by swimming horizontally, undulating or conversely flat on the bottom.

[0234] At the very bottom of the niche (15) there is an opening leading to the inside of the first compartment, i.e. the trap itself, with an upward facing entrance (19) that is rectangular and slightly larger than the size of the target larva.

[0235] This shape and position are determined by the mosquito larva's reflexes, which allow them to rise to the water's surface tail first and then breathe at the surface.

[0236] The size of all these openings and their position on the trap is important: if they are too big the larvae will be easily picked up from the trap and will not be able to leave; if they are too small or poorly shaped the larvae will not enter the trap, as will an opening in the wrong position in terms of height.

[0237] The second part of the trap is the labyrinth, consisting of three compartments (A), (B) and (C), interconnected by vestibules (1), (2) and (3) in the shape of a truncated pyramid with a horizontal rectangular base.

[0238] The pyramidal vestibular profile (1)(2)(3) vertically restrains the horizontal swimming of captured mosquito larvae and guides them to the height of the rectangular exit ports (7)(8)(9) of the compartment.

[0239] The calculated linearity of the size of the exits (7),(8),(9) of the vestibules (1),(2),(3) makes it increasingly difficult for the larvae to navigate through the trap, while the animals become increasingly stressed, forcing the larvae to enter smaller and smaller openings.

[0240] The choice of three compartments forming the maze is purely arbitrary and in no way obligatory in connection with the operation of the present invention, since this parameter may vary depending on the general shape of the trap, the size of the target larvae, and the desired rate of larval growth within the trap.

[0241] In a simple single-tier creel, the larvae must search for hours before they can find an exit, or the small entrance opening makes it difficult for them to enter, but in the cascaded compartments (A), (B), and (C), the large entrance openings, large volumes, and small exits make it difficult for the larvae to enter. Even if the larvae start to escape, this system ensures that they return to the anaerobic asphyxiation chamber (D), which has no exit.

[0242] FIG. 2 is a schematic 3D perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the invention, in the form of a parallelepiped with a square base, 80 mm square and 8 mm thick, which is placed at the bottom of a larvae farm. The trap has a number of inlets (6) open on all four sides in order to provide optimal access to the larvae coming from all directions. Due to its very thin thickness, the trap can also be used at very shallow depths. In such cases, it is recommended to place several traps at equal intervals from each other. For example, it can be thought of to place them directly at the bottom of the gutter, but in the case of multi-storey buildings this is often difficult to access. It is also possible to mould the traps directly into the plastic material that constitutes the gutter, making direct use of the principles of the invention over a lifetime.

[0243] Figure 3 shows the internal configuration of the preferred embodiment of the invention shown in Figure 2. It should be noted that this model consists of two half-labyrinths of compartments (13) and (14) arranged opposite each other on a centering pin (20), and that it has a removable cover (16) that allows manual underwater deaeration during installation, the use of this trap is intended for use at the bottom of a rectangular water retention tray of a balcony planter.

[0244] FIG. 4 shows a preferred embodiment of the invention in the form of a disk that is slid between an ornamental plant pot and its water-retaining tray to form a trap 120 mm in diameter and 10 mm thick.

[0245] For this particular application, the top removable lid (16) has a diameter of 120 mm, a "cover" size designed to close the trap opening (15) located at the top periphery and prevent potting soil debris from clogging the entrance to the trap compartment.

[0246] In this preferred embodiment of the invention for ornamental flower pots, the top cover (16) is held in place by two elastic straps (17) so that by opening it with his fingers using the pin (18), the trap installer can release the air trapped inside the trap, which will return to its original position, ensuring the pressure necessary to seal the assembly and the cohesion of the various components.

[0247] Alternatively, a spring system could be used for this function. In this preferred embodiment of the invention, the entire trap is made of hard ABS type plastic for long life, and the lid can be made of clear PMMA type plexiglass to allow checking efficiency and cleanliness at a glance.

[0248] Figure 5 shows the internal organization of the labyrinth in compartments (A), (B), and (C) in one circular portion of the same trapping disk as in Figure 4, revealing not only a reduction in the size of the openings to the vestibule (1), (2), and (3) exits (7), (8), and (9) but also a reduction in the number of these exits.

[0249] Note that the model consists of two half-labyrinths of the same compartment (30).

[0250] Additionally, the triangular cut-out compartment (21) allows for venting of the trap.

[0251] Diagram 5 also shows the trap's central asphyxiation chamber (D), which has only three entrances (9) and is very small.

[0252] The volume of this chamber is large compared to the other compartments, so the probability that the larvae would randomly find an exit while swimming engrossed is low. Larvae entering the asphyxiation chamber (D) are considered irreversible, given their lifespan in the absence of oxygen at this stage in the trap.

[0253] Figure 6 shows an exploded view of all the parts of the disk trap shown in Figures 4 and 5: A top cover (16) covers the entire trap. Two labyrinth halves (30) of the same shape are centrally disposed opposite each other. Two centering pins (20) ensure the correct positioning of the two labyrinth halves (30) facing each other. The bottom (23) of the trap is only 100 mm in diameter to allow free access to the inlet (15) which accesses the trap orifice (19).

[0254] The two elastic bracelets (17) provide the pressure necessary to seal the assembly and ensure that the various elements that make up the trap, namely (16), 2 x (30), 2 x (20), (23), fit snugly together.

[0255] Figure 7 shows a specific use of the same preferred embodiment as shown in Figures 4, 5 and 6, but completed by replacing the top cover (16) with a bottom cover (23) of the same 100 mm diameter, thus freeing up the top access opening (15) for use with any container (25), even if the latter is immobile on the ground such as a basin, fountain, bowl, trough or manhole.

[0256] In addition to preventive use or therapeutic treatment of potential breeding sites, when the device thus created is used to divert mosquito eggs from natural sites in order to destroy the larvae in accordance with the principles of the present invention, this use also competes directly with commercially available larvae traps.

[0257] The present invention, which is installed as an egg-laying trap, has the advantage over commercially available traps that it can be used in any container with a low height, even if it is immobile, whether or not mosquito larvae are present, and can be used as a mosquito larvae extermination device. Since the trap does not include any container containing water, the present invention has a very reduced format and is cheaper in both manufacturing and sales costs than existing commercially available traps. Furthermore, the present invention is very discreet and completely invisible from the surface.

[0258] Since this type of application is conventional and commonplace, the principles are not pursued further in this patent application.

[0259] FIG. 8 illustrates a three-dimensional view of an improved preferred embodiment of the automatic degassing system of the present invention shown in FIGS.

[0260] The modification consisted of adding plastic spacers (24) that dissolve quickly in water to hold the top and bottom lids open long enough for the trap to degas. This modification allowed the trap to be discarded without special installation, even in hard-to-reach pest control areas.

[0261] As removal from the site is generally cumbersome, the entire trap is designed to self-dissolve in the water at the site after a few months and is made entirely of PLA-type biodegradable plastic with a programmed lifespan.

[0262] FIG. 9 is a drawing of a spacer (24) designed from a PVA type plastic that dissolves in water in a few hours for a preferred improved version of the automatic degassing system shown in FIG.

[0263] The spacer keeps the top and bottom covers open for the time required to degas the trap. The spacer features a combination of low cross-sectional area (27) and high cross-sectional area (28) and can be programmed to dissolve and drain outside the device, without interfering with the automatic closing of the trap. When the spacer dissolves, it pulls the two rubbers (17) and the trap closes automatically, remaining effective throughout the mosquito breeding season.

[0264] The trap is particularly suited to treating standing water in industrial and urban wetlands, swamps and other natural areas where traps and manholes are installed.

[0265] The model of the spacer shown in FIG. 7 is designed to be soluble in water, but this is purely indicative and will not be described in detail in this patent application as only its functionality is important.

[0266] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment modified for direct integration into an ornamental planter (22) and its water-retaining tray (31).

[0267] The present invention is designed with half of the trap positioned in the center of the pot bottom and half in the center of the saucer bottom, and is of a consistent size for all pot sizes, so that the feet (32) make up for the extra height of the trap and distribute the weight of the soil and plant around the trap.

[0268] To ensure that the two half traps are aligned, a locating pin (20) is attached when the pot is placed in the saucer.

[0269] Depending on the manufacturing technique used for the two objects (in this case plastic injection molding), it may be necessary to manufacture the covers (26) and (29) separately and weld them together at the end of the manufacturing process.

[0270] The slow, natural, automatic degassing of the trap is achieved through a vent (35) in the top cover, which also serves to irrigate the pot soil by capillary action through a sheet of filter material (36).As a further improvement, a well (34) delivers decomposed larval nutrients and organic matter to the roots of the plants within the pot.

[0271] The square or disk shapes chosen for these examples are in no way limiting and are dictated by the final destination of the invention, showing that any combination or configuration of compartments of any shape themselves can form mazes of any size and shape, or can be directly incorporated into the bottom of a manufactured product, as shown in Figure 10. Thus, the invention can also be directly incorporated into the bottom of gutters, vases, basins, fountains, troughs, or any other outdoor or indoor container that contains water and can be infected with parasitic mosquito larvae. (Conclusion)

[0272] While existing technology has been adapted over the past decade to develop new, simple, safe, suitable and inexpensive methods for individuals to protect themselves from the scourge of mosquito bites, the principles, method of use and even operation employed by this invention are entirely new.

[0273] To be effective, vector control methods must have the following characteristics: 1. Be efficient; 2. Affordable for the people; 3. Use readily available products and equipment; 4. Easy to understand and implement; 5. Adapt to local customs, attitudes and beliefs; 6. Safe for users and the environment.

[0274] Therefore, the choice of approach must not only be based on effectiveness, but also on sustainability and affordability, since it is often ultimately up to local communities to decide what vector control measures will be adapted to their particular situations, finances, habits and practices, which will determine the degree of their participation.

[0275] Applying these characteristics to the present case: 1. It is effective; Our prototype has been demonstrated to completely destroy a sample site consisting of 100 larvae within 36 hours. 2. Plastic injection molding, Alternatively, since it is mass-produced by thermoforming, the manufacture of the present invention does not pose any special technical difficulties and can be brought to market quickly and cheaply in any factory that produces plastic objects. The present invention is much smaller than the vertical creel traps currently on the market, reducing manufacturing costs to a fraction of the price of current traps, and because the present invention is so compact, shipping and distribution costs are also reduced. Furthermore, there is no need for consumables such as bait or chemical ingredients that add to the sales price. 3. Use readily available products and materials. The raw materials used are common in the plastics industry and can be recycled. The trap is not visible from the outside, so the final appearance is not very important. As evidence, all of our prototypes were produced using commercially available 3D printers, with a relatively high level of accuracy that could be imagined as being produced by artisans in remote or isolated locations. When using biodegradable plastics, the behavior of the raw materials is well understood in the industry, and the traps could conceivably be manufactured from other even more environmentally friendly materials such as rice husk, wood chip composites, vegetable matter, and other biocompatible materials. 4. Development of this invention; Especially discovering its inner working logic took time and delicacy, but for the end user using and implementing the product is child's play, even if the slightly "magical" aspects of "how it works" remain complex. It deprives the larvae of oxygen and causes them to drown. The principle of this is self-evident and does not require any special explanation. 5. Conform to local customs, ideas and beliefs. The present invention is directly applicable as it can be incorporated into many everyday products used throughout the world. Few things are more universal than vases, plant pots, and rain gutters. Furthermore, the present invention is very unobtrusive since it is not visible below the surface of the water being treated. As no chemicals or other additives are added to the liquid, it is completely transparent in its ability to change the properties of the treated water, and best of all, food-grade plastic can be used in its manufacture. Its use does not in any way alter the way water is managed or consumed in reservoirs, tanks or other animal watering troughs, nor does it interfere with its addition or removal. 6. Safe for users and the environment. They are chemical-free, rot-proof or biodegradable, in some cases made from food-grade plastic or recycled materials, function on natural biological principles and are harmless to users and the environment.

[0276] Finally, to the above mentioned interests of this aquatic mosquito larvae trap invention we can add:

[0277] The invention is adaptable to other pest species (such as Thrips palmi) and maturity of target larvae, allowing the traps to be made even smaller, especially when the larvae to be captured are young.

[0278] -The invention acts directly at the source by directly treating natural larval breeding sites (for example in flower pots, which statistically represent 40% of household mosquito breeding sites in the West Indies).

[0279] The present invention can be used in shallow waters where the majority of mosquito larvae are born and are not available in the larvae trap market.

[0280] The invention is durable and long-lasting, making it a long-lasting investment.

[0281] The invention can be used in immovable natural or artificial containers and does not distort the natural location as it is not visible below the water surface.

[0282] -Finally, multiple traps can be used simultaneously and spaced evenly across the bottom of a large water tank to increase pest kill.

[0283] Indeed, vector control today is more a local effort involving communities than large-scale programs organized by public agencies. Moreover, many of the traditional methods used to prevent and control vector-borne and other infectious diseases are poorly applied or no longer effective. Economic development, demographic and environmental changes, and increased human mobility have led to the re-emergence of diseases in new contexts and in more virulent forms. Many pathogens are now resistant to common drugs, and vectors have developed resistance to insecticides.

[0284] Measures involving the permanent improvement of housing and other living conditions can contribute to the fight against these diseases that impede economic progress and the well-being of the inhabitants in many parts of the world. Mosquito-borne diseases are the main cause of morbidity and mortality in many tropical and subtropical countries - malaria, filariasis, leishmaniasis, schistosomiasis, dengue fever, trypanosomiasis, etc. - and are a major obstacle to economic development due to the countless lost work hours, the high cost of treatment and the costs of vector control.

[0285] As well as being environmentally damaging, large-scale vector control campaigns are often impractical for economic or simply practical reasons. For these reasons, vector-borne disease control methods that individuals and communities can implement themselves have been explored. Unfortunately, there are very few such methods that can be profitably used by non-experts.

[0286] The present invention aims to contribute to this fight by proposing a novel method of defense, purely mechanical and biological, that can be used by individuals and communities and requires minimal organization and training.

[0287] Moreover, it is a simple, low-cost technology that requires only a minimum of "low tech" and is safe for both users and the environment.

[0288] All that remains is to adapt the possible applications of this invention to the local conditions and populations involved in the fight against mosquitoes, man's biggest predator.

Claims

1. A compact, low-profile underwater trap for capturing or drowning mosquito larvae. It is characterized by including: a) a number of hiding places (6) are provided around the periphery of the device to protect the larvae from light and predators; b) It is made up of multiple compartments (A, B, C) that are connected to each other, and a labyrinth is formed that finally leads to an oxygen-free closed chamber (D). c) The suspensions (1, 2, 3) for communication between the sections of the maze (A, B, C) are in the form of pyramidal trunks with horizontal rectangular bases leading to the next section underwater, and the exits (7, 8, 9) are of gradually decreasing dimensions. The shape of these suspensions takes into account the mode of movement of the larvae, allowing them to pass through each section of the maze (A, B, C) in order and head towards the closed chamber (D) without suffocation. d) It contains at least one oxygen-free asphyxiation chamber (D) called "no exit" and is provided with a minimum of entrances (9) and as large a swimming space as possible.

2. 2. A compact, low profile underwater trap for capturing or drowning mosquito larvae according to claim 1, It is characterized by including: a) an exhaust system (10 and 11) to make the trap anoxic, with a vent (10) at the top of the device to allow gas to escape and equipped with a filter (11) to prevent the larvae from escaping; b) or an alternative exhaust system for rendering the trap anoxic, including a removable cover (16) that can be operated underwater when the trap is installed to expel all air bubbles; c) Or another alternative evacuation system for rendering the trap anoxic, which includes a pump system (18) that is operated when the trap is installed to evacuate the air.

3. 3. A compact, low profile underwater trap for capturing or drowning mosquito larvae according to claim 1 or 2, It is characterized by including: a) A labyrinth (Figure 5) consisting of a succession of compartments (A, B, C, D) is constructed to capture the larvae, which can be replicated and combined to form traps of various sizes and shapes (Figures 3, 6) adapted to the habitat of the larvae or integrated into any external or internal container (Figure 10) that can serve as a habitat for the larvae.

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