Pest control device and methods

Abstract

Provided herein are devices for deploying an insect, such as a lepidopteran insect (e.g., Fall Armyworm). Methods of controlling populations of the lepidopteran insect are also disclosed. The devices and methods disclosed herein are especially useful for controlling such insects in fields such as corn fields in a safe, efficient, and labor-saving way.

Description

PEST CONTROL DEVICE AND METHODSCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 609,782, filed December 13, 2023, entitled “PEST CONTROL DEVICE AND METHODS,” which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to devices and methods for pest population control, such as releasing genetically modified insects as biological pest control. Associated computer systems, hardware, and software for planning and / or implementing an insect release from one or more devices are also disclosed.BRIEF SUMMARY

[0003] Lepidopteran insects (e.g., Fall Armyworm or FAW) cause severe damage to agricultural products such as com. Therefore, devices and methods for controlling such insects in a safe, efficient, and labor-saving way are needed.

[0004] In some aspects, provided herein are devices and methods for deploying insects such as genetically engineered insects for controlling insects (e.g., wild insects, wild-type insects or naturally occurring insects) of the same insect type (e.g., insect sub-class, insect order, insect family, insect genus, or insect species). In some embodiments, provided herein are devices and methods for deploying genetically engineered lepidopteran insects for controlling wild-type lepidopteran insects. In some embodiments, provided herein are devices and methods for deploying insects comprising wild-type insects. For example, a deployed (e.g., released) wild-type insect may comprise a wild- type insecticide- susceptible lepidopteran insect. In some embodiments, a wild-type insecticide-susceptible lepidopteran insect is released to reverse insecticide resistance. In some embodiments, a released wild-type lepidopteran insect may comprise a radiation-sterilized lepidopteran insect.

[0005] Provided herein is a device for releasing insects, comprising a container, wherein the container comprises: a base comprising a bottom wall and a sidewall, wherein the bottom wall and the side wall enclose a space; and a spacer on the base, wherein the spacer partitions the spaceinto a plurality of compartments each configured to hold pupae of a lepidopteran insect, wherein the sidewall comprises a plurality of openings each configured to allow exit of an adult of the lepidopteran insect from a compartment of the plurality of compartments.

[0006] In some embodiments, the container further comprises a lid configured to engage the sidewall and / or the bottom wall such that the container has a closed configuration and an open configuration, wherein the bottom wall, the sidewall, and the lid together enclose the space when the container is in the closed configuration. In some embodiments, the lid comprises a sidewall comprising a plurality of openings configured to align with the plurality of openings in the sidewall of the base when the container is in the closed configuration, thereby allowing adults of the lepidopteran insect to exit through the plurality of openings in the base and in the lid.

[0007] In some embodiments, the plurality of openings in the base or in the lid are independently in the shape of a circle, semi-circle, oval, ellipse, slot, triangle, square, rectangle, parallelogram, rhombus, trapezium, kite, or polygon, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings in the base or in the lid are independently of between about 10 mm and about 30 mm in diameter, optionally wherein the plurality of openings in the base are 21 mm in diameter, or optionally wherein the plurality of lid openings in the lid are 13 mm in diameter. In some embodiments, the diameter of openings in the lid are less than the diameter of openings in the base.

[0008] In some embodiments, the device may further comprise a cover configured to cover at least a portion of the base and / or at least a portion of the lid. In some embodiments, the cover is a shading structure.

[0009] In some embodiments, the device may further comprise a cage configured to enclose the container, allowing adults of the lepidopteran insect to exit, and prevent predators of the lepidopteran insect from accessing the device. In some embodiments, the cage comprises a mesh cage or a gabion.

[0010] In some embodiments, the device may further comprise a support configured to elevate the device above a ground level.

[0011] In some embodiments, the device may further comprise a housing configured to house the container. In some embodiments, the housing is configured to house multiple containers. In some embodiments, the housing comprises a plurality of openings configured to allow adults of thelepidopteran insect to exit. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings in the housing are configured to align with the plurality of openings in the sidewall of the base and / or the plurality of openings in the sidewall of the lid. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings in the base, in the lid, and / or in the housing are configured to provide air communication between the plurality of compartments and an outside environment. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings in the base, in the lid, and / or in the housing are configured to regulate temperature inside the container. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings in the base, in the lid, and / or in the housing are configured to prevent rain and / or predators of the lepidopteran insect from entering the plurality of compartments. In some embodiments, the container may consist of one layer of the plurality of compartments. In some embodiments, the device may comprise multiple layers of the plurality of compartments.

[0012] In some embodiments, the device may comprise a temperature insulating material, optionally wherein the base, the spacer, the lid, the cover, and / or the housing comprises a temperature insulating material, and optionally any one or more of the components of the device comprises a recyclable material. In some embodiments, any one or more of the components of the device may comprise cardboard, plastic, a corrugated material, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the base, the spacer, the lid, the cover, and / or the housing are made of cardboards, optionally wherein the cardboard(s) is / are about 3 mm in thickness and about 420 g / m2in grammage. In some embodiments, the external surfaces of the base, the lid, the cover, and / or the housing are of a light color, optionally wherein the external surfaces are white. In some embodiments, the external surfaces of the base, the lid, the cover, and / or the housing are configured to reflect solar radiation. In some embodiments, the device may further comprise the base and / or the lid comprises a single layer of cardboards, and / or the spacer comprises double layers of cardboards. In some embodiments, any one or more of the components of the device comprises a coating, optionally wherein the external surfaces of the base, the lid, the cover, and / or the housing are coated with a waterproof coating, a temperature insulating coating, or a combination thereof.

[0013] In some embodiments, the container may measure between about 50 cm and about 20 cm in length. In some embodiments, the container may measure about 33 cm in length. In some embodiments, the container may measure between about 50 cm and about 20 cm in width. In some embodiments, the container may measure about 33 cm in width. In some embodiments, thecontainer may measure about 33 cm in width and in length. In some embodiments, the container may measure between about 15 cm and about 5 cm in height.

[0014] In some embodiments, the container may comprise a plurality of spacers. In some embodiments, the spacer(s) may each comprise a plurality of openings configured to provide air communication between adjacent compartments of the plurality of compartments. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings in the spacer(s) is configured to allow passage of adults of the lepidopteran insect between adjacent compartments of the plurality of compartments. In some embodiments, the device may further comprise between about 2 and about 10 compartments in the space. In some embodiments, the device may further comprise between 6 compartments in the space. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of compartments in the space is in air communication with each adjacent compartment through one or more openings in the spacer between the compartments. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of compartments in the space is in air communication with an outside environment through one or more openings in the side wall.

[0015] In some embodiments, the container is configured to maintain the temperature in the spacer between about 15°C and about 35°C and the humidity above about 75% when the container is in a closed configuration, optionally wherein the container is configured to maintain the temperature in the spacer between about 20°C and about 30°C and the humidity above about 80% when the container is in a closed configuration.

[0016] In some embodiments, the container is configured to provide a head space above the pupae of the lepidopteran insect in the container. In some embodiments, the head space is between about 1 cm and about 4 cm, optionally wherein the head space is 2 cm, between a lid of the container and the pupae of the lepidopteran insect.

[0017] In some embodiments, the device is configured to hold a total of between about 900 and about 40,000 pupae of the lepidopteran insect. In some embodiments, the device is configured to hold a total of between about 1,000 and about 35,000 pupae of the lepidopteran insect. In some embodiments, the device is configured to hold a total of between about 5,000 and about 30,000 pupae of the lepidopteran insect. In some embodiments, the device is configured to hold a total of between about 10,000 and about 25,000 pupae of the lepidopteran insect. In some embodiments, the device is configured to hold a total of between about 15,000 and about 20,000 pupae of the lepidopteran insect. In some embodiments, the device is configured to hold a total of betweenabout 11,000 and about 19,000 pupae of the lepidopteran insect. In some embodiments, the device is configured to hold a total of between about 13,000 and about 17,000 pupae of the lepidopteran insect. In some embodiments, the device is configured to hold a total of between about 13,500 and about 16,500 pupae of the lepidopteran insect.

[0018] In some embodiments, the container is configured to hold at least 12,000 pupae of the lepidopteran insect. In some embodiments, the container is configured to hold between about 1,800 and about 12,000 pupae of the lepidopteran insect. In some embodiments, the container is configured to hold about 5,000 pupae of the lepidopteran insect. In some embodiments, the housing is configured to hold three containers (also described herein as three “cassettes”, e.g., as described in Example 1), each configured to hold about 5,000 pupae of the lepidopteran insect, e.g., 4,500-5,500 insects per container. In some embodiments, each compartment is configured to hold between about 300 and about 2,000 pupae of the lepidopteran insect. In some embodiments, each compartment is configured to hold about 800 pupae of the lepidopteran insect. In some embodiments, each compartment (e.g., each of three compartments in a single device) holds 4,500-5,500 insects, and a single device contains three such containers for a total of about 13,500 and about 16,500 pupae of the lepidopteran insect per device.

[0019] In some embodiments, the device is configured for the pupae of the lepidopteran insect to form a layer of pupae with depth between about 0.5 cm and about 3 cm in each of the plurality of compartments, optionally wherein the layer is about 1 cm in pupae depth.

[0020] In some embodiments, the lepidopteran insect is a species of the genus Spodoptera, Helicoverpa, Chrysodeixis , Anticarsia, Peridroma, or Heliothis. In some embodiments, the device may further comprise the lepidopteran insect is Spodoptera frugiperda, Spodoptera exigtia, Spodoplera litoralis, Helicoverpa armigera, Peridroma saueia, Helicoverpa zea, Chrysodeixis includens, Anticarsia gemmatalis, or Heliothis virescens. In some embodiments, the pupae of the lepidopteran insect is genetically engineered. In some embodiments, the pupae of the lepidopteran insect may comprise a gene expression system capable of producing a effector having a lethal, deleterious, or sterilizing effect, optionally wherein the gene expression system is a sex-specific gene expression system, optionally wherein the gene expression system and / or effector is activated in the absence of a substance, optionally wherein the substance is a chemical ligand, optionally wherein the chemical ligand is tetracycline or an analog or derivative thereof. In some embodiments, at least about 10%, at least about 20%, at least about 30%, at least about 40%, atleast about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%, at least about 99%, or 100% of the pupae of the lepidopteran insect in the plurality of compartments in the device are males. In some embodiments, the pupae of the lepidopteran insect in the plurality of compartments in the device are between about 16 days old and about 19 days old from when eggs are placed into a rearing chamber. In some embodiments, 0%, about 1%, about 5%, about 10%, about 20%, about 30%, about 40%, about 50%, about 60%, about 70%, about 80%, about 90%, about 95%, about 99%, or 100% of the pupae of the lepidopteran insect in the plurality of compartments in the device may have eclosed.

[0021] In some aspects, disclosed herein is a method for delivering an insect, comprising storing a device described herein at about 18°C, wherein the device comprises pupae of the lepidopteran insect in the plurality of compartments.

[0022] In some embodiments, provided herein is a method comprising shipping a device as described herein at about 5°C, about 10°C, about 15°C, or about 30°C, wherein the device comprises pupae of the lepidopteran insect in the plurality of compartments.

[0023] In some embodiments, a plurality of the containers are stacked in multiple layers during shipping. In some embodiments, in each layer the containers are stacked in rows and columns, and there is a gap between adjacent rows and adjacent columns.

[0024] In some aspects, provided herein is a method comprising placing a device as described herein, where the device is configured to allow the pupae to eclose and adults of the lepidopteran insect to exit the device and into the field. In some embodiments, the device is placed in the field for between about 4 and about 15 days. In some embodiments, the device may comprise one container. In some embodiments, the device may comprise multiple containers. In some embodiments, the device may comprise between about 3 and about 6 containers. In some embodiments, the method may comprise placing a device in the field every week for between about 4 and about 8 weeks during crop growth. In some embodiments, for each unit of the device placed in the field, the unit covers an area between about 100 and about 500 acres, optionally an area of about 400 acres. In some embodiments, the release ratio is between about 0.01 : 1 and about 1000:1, or a ratio of greater than 1000:1. In some embodiments, the release ratio is about 0.01:1, 0.1:1, 1:1, 3:1, 20:1, 50:1, 100:1, 500:1, or 1000:1. In some embodiments, the release ratio is about 1:1. In some embodiments, the release ratio is less than 1:1. In some embodiments, the release ratio is about 0.1:1, 0.5:1, 1:1, 1:2, 1:5, or 1:10. In some embodiments, the adults of thelepidopteran insect that have exited the device may overflood wild males in the field at a ratio between about 0.01:1 and about 1000:1, or a ratio of greater than 1000:1. In some embodiments, the adults of the lepidopteran insect that have exited the device may overflood wild males in the field at a ratio of about 0.01:1, 0.1:1, 1:1, 3:1, 20:1, 50:1, 100:1, 500:1, or 1000:1. In some embodiments, the adults of the lepidopteran insect that have exited the device may overflood wild males in the field at a ratio of about 1:1. In some embodiments, the adults of the lepidopteran insect that have exited the device may overflood wild males in the field at a ratio of less than 1:1. In some embodiments, the adults of the lepidopteran insect that have exited the device may overflood wild males in the field at a ratio of about 0.1:1, 0.5:1, 1:1, 1:2, 1:5, or 1:10.

[0025] In some embodiments, the adults of the lepidopteran insect that have exited the device are males and may mate with wild females of the same species. In such embodiments, the males that have exited the device may comprise genetically modified male lepidopteran insects or wild-type male lepidopteran insects. In some embodiments, the released male lepidopteran insects may mate with the wild females resulting in at least some offspring that inherit a trait or traits of the released male species. In some embodiments, offspring of the released male lepidopteran insect and the wild female insect may comprise an inherited trait of the released male lepidopteran insect. In some embodiments, the males may comprise a gene expression system capable of producing an effector having a lethal, deleterious, or sterilizing effect, optionally wherein the gene expression system is a sex-specific gene expression system, optionally wherein the gene expression system and / or effector is activated in the absence of a substance, optionally wherein the substance is a chemical ligand, optionally wherein the chemical ligand is tetracycline or an analog or derivative thereof. In some embodiments, the method may comprise mating of the males with the wild females resulting in at least some offspring that inherit the gene expression system, thereby suppressing a population of wild insects of said same species in the field and / or causing resistance reversal and / or susceptibility of insects of said same species to (a) crops expressing an endotoxin, or (b) chemical insecticides. In some embodiments, the method may comprise mating of released wild-type insecticide-susceptible males with wild females resulting in at least some offspring that inherit the insecticide-susceptible trait. In some embodiments, a wild-type insecticide- susceptible lepidopteran insect (e.g., FAW) could be released to reverse insecticide resistance. In some embodiments, a wild-type lepidopteran insect may comprise a radiation-sterilized lepidopteran insect (e.g., FAW) that could be released from the device.

[0026] In some embodiments, the field is a corn field comprising genetically modified (GMO) com and / or non-GMO com. In some embodiments, the corn field comprises com expressing an endotoxin. In some embodiments, the endotoxin comprises Bt delta. In some embodiments, the endotoxin comprises Vip3a. In some embodiments, the corn has a Lep5 trait. In some embodiments, the corn has a Lep4 trait. In some embodiments, the com has a CRW4 trait. In some embodiments, the endotoxin includes, but is not limited to, the Cryl, Cry2, Cry3, Cry4, Cry5, Cry6, Cry7, Cry8, Cry9, Cry 10, Cryl l, Cry 12, Cry 13, Cry 14, Cry 15, Cry 16, Cry 17, Cry 18, Cryl9, Cry20, Cry21, Cry22, Cry23, Cry24, Cry25, Cry26, Cry27, Cry 28, Cry 29, Cry 30, Cry31, Cry32, Cry33, Cry34, Cry35, Cry36, Cry37, Cry38, Cry39, Cry40, Cry41, Cry42, Cry43, Cry44, Cry45, Cry 46, Cry47, Cry49, Cry 51 and Cry55 classes of 5-endotoxin genes and the B. thuringiensis cytolytic Cytl and Cyt2 genes, including endotoxins disclosed in US 2020 / 0359619 Al incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. Cry- transgenic plants such as corn include but are not limited to Cryl Ac, CrylAc+Cry2Ab, Cryl Ab, CrylA.105, CrylF, CrylFa2, CrylF+CrylAc, Cry2Ab, Cry3A, mCry3A, Cry3Bbl, Cry34Abl, Cry35Abl, Vip3A, mCry3A, Cry9c and CBI-Bt. In some embodiments, the corn field has been sprayed with a pesticide for the lepidopteran insect prior to placing the device in the field. In some embodiments, the com field has not been sprayed with a pesticide for the lepidopteran insect prior to placing the device in the field. In some embodiments, the field may comprise a corn field, a soybean field, a sugarcane field, a millet field, a sorghum field, a rice field, or a cotton field.

[0027] In some aspects, provided herein is a method, comprising: obtaining information of a wild population of a lepidopteran insect in a field, optionally wherein obtaining the information comprises forecasting; selecting a location in the field, a date, and / or a time during the day based on the obtained information; placing a device as described herein at the selected location, time during the day, and / or date; and allowing adults of the lepidopteran insect to emerge and exit the device, wherein the adults mate with the wild population. In some embodiments, the method may comprise measuring the number of males of the lepidopteran insect that have exited a single container. In some embodiments, the method may comprise measuring the number of males of the lepidopteran insect that have exited multiple containers in one or more devices in the field. In some embodiments, the method may comprise using the number of males that have exited a single container and / or the number of males that have exited multiple containers in one or more devices in the field to inform the number of containers and / or devices in a given area, the locations of thecontainers and / or devices in the given area, and / or the frequency of placing the containers and / or devices in the given area.

[0028] In some aspects, provided herein is a non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising processor-executable instructions to cause a processor to: obtain information of a wild population of a lepidopteran insect in a field, optionally wherein the processor-executable instructions cause the processor to forecast the information; provide instruction or recommendation to a user for selecting a location in the field, a date, and / or a time during the day based on the obtained information and for placing a device as described herein at the selected location, time during the day, and / or date. In some embodiments, the obtained information may comprise crop type, crop growth stage, weather, or any combination thereof.

[0029] In some embodiments, the method provided herein or the non-transitory computer- readable medium as provided herein is for use in controlling the wild population of the lepidopteran insect in the geographic region. In some embodiments, the adults that exit the device provided herein may comprise males only or females only, or include both males and females. In some embodiments, the adults that exit the device are: genetically engineered insects that mate with wild insects of the same species of the opposite sex, and sterile or sterilized insects that mate with wild insects of the same species of the opposite sex, optionally wherein the insects are sterilized using radiation, thereby controlling the wild population in the geographic region. In some embodiments, the lepidopteran insect is a moth (e.g., an adult moth) of the genus Spodoptera, Helicoverpa, Chrysodeixis, Anticarsia, Peridroma, or Heliothis.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] The drawings illustrate certain embodiments of the features and advantages of this disclosure. These embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims in any manner.

[0031] FIG. 1A shows an exemplary device comprising a container with the lid closed. Ports are shown on the front side wall. FIG. IB depicts a container with the lid open, showing six compartments, separated by spacers. External ports of the sidewalls and internal ports of the spacer can be seen.

[0032] FIG. 2 shows an exemplary device comprising a container with all six compartments filled with pupae.

[0033] FIG. 3 depicts an exemplary schematic presenting both ground and raised concepts. Cardboard devices with pupae in them are delivered to the grower and then either placed on the ground or raised. Ground concepts include placing the device inside of a mesh cage (e.g., gabion) for, e.g., predator protection. Raised concepts include placing the device on a stand for, e.g., predator protection. A shade feature can be used directly on the device or on the mesh cage for environmental stability.

[0034] FIGS. 4A-4D show various exemplary assemblies of devices. FIG. 4A depicts a schematic of a tower of cardboard cassettes with spacers placed between the cassettes to separate them and the tower is placed on top of a pole to raise it off of the ground. FIG. 4B depicts an exemplary schematic of a device comprising a cage (e.g., gabion) configured to protect stacked containers (e.g. cassettes) and to provide shelving for stacking the containers. FIG. 4C depicts an exemplary schematic of a device comprising a cage (e.g., gabion) configured hold multiple containers (e.g. cassettes) on a shelf in the context of a single or double shelf. FIG. 4D depicts an exemplary schematic of a device configured to have stacked containers (e.g. cassettes) that are capable of being slid into and out of the device.

[0035] FIGS. 5A-5B show an exemplary “bird table” style design, where a housing holding three containers is mounted on a shelf (e.g., bird table) of a stand. FIG. 5C shows a single housing designed to hold three containers, where the housing comprises both round ports for ventilation within each container and elongated ports for ventilation between each container.

[0036] FIGS. 6A-6C show various exemplary housings that in addition to ports comprise edge folds to create a gap between containers. The gaps between containers allow for better ventilation.

[0037] FIGS. 7A-7B both depict an exemplary housing fixed to a stand via a bracket and / or an arm to provide support and prevent movement (e.g., rotation).

[0038] FIG. 8A depicts exemplary containers (e.g., devices) stacked on a pallet to be prepared for shipping. FIG. 8B depicts a stacking configuration optimized for ventilation during shipping.

[0039] FIG. 9 shows an exemplary dosing map.

[0040] FIG. 10 illustrates an example of a computing device 1000, in accordance with an embodiment. In some embodiments, the computing device is configured to be in the disclosed systems and is configured to perform the operational methods associated with the systems disclosed herein.

[0041] FIGS. 11A-11J depict schematics of an exemplary device (e.g., Design A as described herein) that has an outer housing with a roof and holds three modular cassettes with various features. FIG. 11A depicts the exemplary device with a roof that has a pitch and type to prevent water retention 1101 and 1102, while maintaining volume in the roof to allow air movement via roof louvre 1103. The cassettes were arranged to have an airspace 1104 separating each cassette from the mounting, which had holes in the outer structure 1105 to allow air flow. The device included fasteners 1106 for easy assembly. FIG. 11B depicts the rear of the exemplary device having air vents 1107 and fasteners 1106 in the back for easy assembly. FIG. 11C shows the exemplary device with the housing opened demonstrating an 80 mm high space between and attic and top layer cassette 1108 to increase airflow. Airspace 1104 is demonstrated above and below each cassette 1110. Openings for the adult moths to escape (escape holes) are depicted as feature 1109 in FIG. 11C. FIG. 11D depicts a schematic of the outer housing of the exemplary device laying flat before being assembled with the air vents in the roof 1107. The housing also has slots 1113 for tabs to be inserted to form the floor for the cassettes to sit on when the housing is assembled and a fold 1111 opposite the door hinge side to secure the door. FIG. HE depicts a schematic of the exemplary device housing without cassettes within the housing and showing the air vents 1107 for the roof. FIG. HF depicts a schematic of a fastener 1106 to assemble the device housing. FIG. 11G depicts the device housing with three cassettes within and the fold 1111 in the housing that the door attaches to using the fasteners 1106 in the fold to close the device. FIG. 11H depicts a schematic of an internal floor for the exemplary device which has tabs 1112 that fit into slots in the housing and allows for cassettes to be placed onto the floor. FIG. HI shows a schematic of three floors being placed into the housing of the exemplary device where the tabs of the floor are placed through a larger slot of the housing and folded over to be inserted through a second slot for form the feature shown in 1114. FIG. HJ shows the tab of a floor being inserted through the slow in the housing before being folded over to form the feature in 1114. FIG. 11K depicts a schematic of the housing of the exemplary device with dimensions in millimeters (mm) and is drawn at a 1:6 scale if displayed on A3 sized paper. FIG. HL shows a schematic of a floorthat can be used in the exemplary device with dimensions in millimeters (mm) and is drawn at a 1:6 scale if displayed on A3 sized paper.

[0042] FIG. 12A depicts an exemplary device placed into a field on the ground. FIG. 12B shows an exemplary device with an exemplary thorn fence placed around the device as an antipredator structure. FIG. 12C depicts an exemplary device placed upon a stand to elevate the device in the field which also acts to prevent predation.

[0043] FIG. 13A depicts the results of testing different thicknesses of pupae layer within the device. The plot FIG. 13A shows the percent of adult escape on the y-axis and the tested heights of the pupae layer (1 cm vs 3 cm) on the x-axis. FIG. 13B depicts the device used to test the results in FIG. 13A with FIG. 13C showing the interior of the device without pupae while FIG. 13D shows the interior of the device with pupae.

[0044] FIG. 14A shows two different device sizes that were tested with the bottom device having twice the pupae capacity of the device on top. FIG. 14B shows the stacked cardboard devices without separation between each device. FIG. 14C shows stacked cardboard devices with separation between each device. FIG. 14D shows stacked devices with separation between and assembled as a tower. FIG. 14E shows stacked devices with separation between and with an exterior housing. FIG. 14F shows a tower shaped device with foil paper wrapped around. FIG. 14G shows stacked devices with foil paper wrapped around. FIG. 14H shows a device with a roof placed on top that has foil paper. FIG. 141 shows a tower device with foil paper wrapped around the housing.

[0045] FIG. 15 shows data of internal temperature of a device (plotted as accumulated degree hours above 35 degrees C) compared to the percent of adults that escape the device (regardless of quality) with the results showing a negative correlation between temperature and adult escape with longer periods on high temperatures leading to lower adult escape.

[0046] FIG. 16 shows an exemplary device being buried in a field to reduce interior temperatures of the device.

[0047] FIG. 17A shows an exemplary device in a field with a roof to provide shading to reduce the temperature and on poles to reduce predation. FIG. 17B shows a plot of the temperature fluctuations over time (12 days) with the shaded exemplary device having lower peak temperatures. Temperature data from raised control devices are in red; temperatures from raiseshaded devices are in blue. FIG. 17C-FIG. 17J shows various configurations of shaded devices, including different colors and materials for the shading, to find effective forms of shading the device and reducing internal temperature with some devices raised off of the ground while others are resting on the ground. FIG. 17K shows the results of testing the impact on temperature that being on ground level or raised devices has and the impact of the devices being shaded or unshaded. The y-axis shows the average temperature in degree hours above 35 degrees C. FIG. 17L shows the device performance of shaded and unshaded devices that were placed on the ground with metal gabions for protection from predation or were raised above the ground.

[0048] FIG. 18A depicts different schematics of exemplary devices that each hold three cassettes with the top schematic showing 5 cm apertures between the cassettes, the middle schematic shows 2.5 cm apertures between the cassettes to allow airflow, and the bottom schematic shows 5 cm apertures between the cassettes and an open roof to allow airflow through the roof as well. FIG. 18B shows the temperature within each of the three cassettes for each of the three devices depicted in FIG. 18A where each device is made of cardboard and measured over 3 days. Temperatures were measured in the top, middle, and bottom of each device. Temperatures were also measured in a "Sao Judas"-style (“SJ”) cassette with a brown or white cover and in ambient air. FIG. 18C depicts the internal temperature of cassettes from devices made following the top schematic from FIG. 18A that were made with corrugated cardboard or plastic (Correx). The dashed box indicates readings taken during a heat wave. FIG. 18D shows the results of a field trial of different releases where each bar in the bar graph is a different cassette made of plastic following the schematic shown in FIG. 11A with cassettes changed every two weeks for the six week trial and the number pupae remaining counted. The results showed over a 96% eclosion rate and a 95% escape rate and the adults that did not escape were evaluated as trapped high quality adult or trapped high deformity adult. The pupae which did not eclose were evaluated for whether they were partially eclosed or uneclosed pupae.

[0049] FIG. 19A and FIG. 19B show the results of field trials with two different farmers with FIG. 19A depicting the results from one farmer and FIG. 19B showing the results with the other farmer. The devices used for both figures had colorful branding on the exterior, were raised off the ground, and contained floor supports for each cassette as described in FIG. 11H and FIG. 11A. Each bar represents a different cassette that was put in over the 6 week trial period. A new cassette was inserted every week and the number of eclosed, escaped adults were counted along with the numbers of trapped adults that were high quality or deformed and the number of partiallyeclosed adults and uneclosed pupae. The average escape rate and the eclosion rate for both farmers were over 95%.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0050] The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the present disclosure or the application and uses thereof. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any expressed or implied theory presented in the preceding Field, Brief Summary, or Brief Description of the Drawings section, or the following detailed description. Specific embodiments of the present disclosure are in some cases described with reference to the figures, wherein like reference numbers indicate identical or functionally similar elements.

[0051] Lepidopteran insects (e.g., Fall Armyworm or FAW) cause severe damage to agricultural products such as com. Therefore, devices and methods for controlling such insects in a safe, efficient, and labor-saving way are needed.

[0052] In some aspects, provided herein are devices and methods for deploying insects such as genetically engineered insects for controlling wild-type insects of the same species. In some embodiments, provided herein are devices and methods for deploying genetically engineered lepidopteran insects for controlling wild-type lepidopteran insects.I. Device

[0053] In some aspects, provided herein are devices and methods for deploying insects such as genetically engineered insects. In some embodiments, devices as described herein may comprise at least one container, a plurality of openings, a cover, a cage, a stand, a housing, materials, or a combination thereof.

[0054] In some embodiments, the devices comprise material and fasteners to increase the ease of assembly. In some embodiments, the outer housing and components are capable of lying flat until being folded and connected together with the fasteners to assemble the device. In some embodiments, the devices comprise headspace, airspace, a roof, and / or other ventilation space above and / or below the components housing the live insects.Container / Cassettes

[0055] Provided herein is a device 100 comprising a container or cassette 101. In some embodiments, the container 101 may comprise an open configuration as seen in FIG. 1A and / or a closed configuration as seen in FIG. IB. In some embodiments, the container 101, may comprise: a base comprising a bottom wall and a sidewall, wherein the bottom wall and the side wall enclose a space. In some embodiments, the container 101 may comprise a spacer 105 on the base as depicted in FIG. IB, wherein the spacer partitions the space into a plurality of compartments 104. In some embodiments, each compartment is configured to comprise (e.g., hold) pupae of a lepidopteran insect. In some embodiments, the sidewall of the container 101 may comprise a plurality of openings 103. In some embodiments, each opening is configured to allow exit of an adult of the lepidopteran insect from a compartment 104 of the plurality of compartments.

[0056] In some embodiments, the container 101 may further comprise a lid 102 as depicted in FIGS 1A-B. In some embodiments, the lid 102 is configured to engage the sidewall and / or the bottom wall such that the container has a closed configuration (FIG. 1A) and an open configuration (FIG. IB). In some embodiments, wherein the bottom wall, the sidewall, and the lid 102 together enclose the space, the container may comprise the closed configuration. FIG. 1A shows an exemplary device comprising a container with the lid closed.

[0057] In some embodiments, the container may measure between about 50 cm and about 20 cm in length. In some embodiments, the container may measure between about 50 cm and about 20 cm in width. In some embodiments, the container may measure between about 15 cm and about 5 cm in height. In some embodiments, the container may measure about 33 cm in length and in width.

[0058] In some embodiments, the container may comprise a plurality of spacers. In some embodiments, the spacer(s) may each comprise a plurality of openings configured to provide air communication between adjacent compartments of the plurality of compartments. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings in the spacer(s) are configured to allow passage of adults of the lepidopteran insect between adjacent compartments of the plurality of compartments. In some embodiments, the container may comprise between about 2 and about 10 compartments in the space. In some embodiments, the container may comprise between 6 compartments in the space. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of compartments in the space are in air communication with each adjacent compartment through one or more openings in the spacerbetween the compartments. In some embodiments, the each of the plurality of compartments in the space are in air communication with an outside environment through one or more openings in the side wall.

[0059] In some embodiments, the device holds multiple containers or cassettes. In some embodiments, the device holds more than one cassette. In some embodiments, the device holds 1 cassette. In some embodiments, the device holds 2 cassettes. In some embodiments, the device holds 3 cassettes.Openings

[0060] Openings (e.g., ports) 103 are shown on the front side wall of a closed container as depicted in FIG. 1A, in accordance with some embodiments. FIG. IB depicts a container with the lid open, showing six compartments 104, separated by spacers 105, in accordance with some embodiments. In some aspects, the container may comprise external openings (e.g., ports). Such external openings are located on the sidewalls of the container as seen in FIGS. 1A-B, in accordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments, internal openings (e.g., ports) are located on the spacer 105 as seen in FIG. IB. In some embodiments, the lid 102 of the container may comprise a sidewall of the container. In such embodiments, the sidewall of the lid may comprise a plurality of openings 103, wherein the plurality of the openings in the sidewall of the lid 102 are configured to align with the plurality of openings in the sidewall of the base. In some embodiments, wherein the container is in the closed configuration (FIG. IB) and the plurality of openings of the sidewall of the lid are aligned with the plurality of openings of the base, adults of the lepidopteran insect are allowed to exit through the plurality of openings in the base and in the lid.

[0061] In some embodiments, the plurality of openings in the base or in the lid are independently in the shape of a circle, semi-circle, oval, ellipse, slot, triangle, square, rectangle, parallelogram, rhombus, trapezium, kite, or polygon, or any combination thereof.

[0062] In some embodiments, the plurality of openings in the base or in the lid may comprise the shape of a circle. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings may comprise a diameter. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings comprising the shape of a circle may comprise a diameter. In some embodiments, each opening of the plurality of openings may comprise a diameter of up to 30 mm or more. In some embodiments, each opening of the plurality of openingsmay comprise a diameter of 10 mm or less. In some embodiments, the diameter of each opening of the plurality of openings may comprise a diameter of between about 10 mm to about 30 mm.

[0063] In some embodiments, the plurality of openings 103 in the lid 102 may comprise a diameter of about 30 mm or more. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings in the lid may comprise a diameter of about 20 mm. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings in the lid may comprise a diameter of about 15 mm. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings in the lid may comprise a diameter of about 10 mm or less. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings in the lid may comprise a diameter of between about 10 mm and about 30 mm. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings in the lid may comprise a diameter of between about 11 mm and about 15 mm. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings in the lid may comprise a diameter of between about 12 mm and about 14 mm. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings in the lid may comprise a diameter of about 13 mm.

[0064] In some embodiments, the plurality of openings 103 in the base 106 may comprise a diameter of up to 30 mm or more. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings in the base may comprise a diameter of about 20 mm. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings in the base may comprise a diameter of about 15 mm. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings in the base may comprise a diameter of about 10 mm or less. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings in the base may comprise a diameter of between about 10 mm and about 30 mm. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings in the base may comprise a diameter of between about 15 mm and about 25 mm. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings in the base may comprise a diameter of between about 17 mm and about 23 mm. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings in the base may comprise a diameter of between about 20 mm and about 22 mm. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings in the base may comprise a diameter of about 21 mm.

[0065] In some embodiments, the plurality of openings in the lid and / or the plurality of openings in the base have hole sizes close to the minimum a moth (e.g., an adult moth, such as, for example, an adult fall army worm) can successfully escape through the openings. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings in the lid and / or the plurality of the openings in the base are escape holes which are large enough to let out insects (e.g. fall armyworm, which is also called FAW). In some embodiments, the plurality of openings may have hole sizes as small as possible to prevent egress of at least some potential predators with tolerance being minimal. In some embodiments, whenthe device is in a closed configuration and the plurality of openings in the lid and / or the plurality of openings in the base are aligned, adult moths can escape but predators cannot enter.

[0066] In some embodiments, the plurality of openings in the base or in the lid are independently of between about 10 mm and about 30 mm in diameter, optionally wherein the plurality of openings in the base are between about 20 mm and about 22 mm in diameter, or optionally wherein the plurality of lid openings in the lid are between about 12 mm and about 14 mm in diameter. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings in the base or in the lid are independently of between about 10 mm and about 30 mm in diameter, wherein the plurality of openings in the base are 21 mm in diameter, and wherein the plurality of lid openings in the lid are 13 mm in diameter. The number of escape holes per quadrant (e.g., per vertical side of a cassette or device) may vary. For example, in some embodiments, there are 1, 2, 3, or 4 escape holes per quadrant. The size of the escape holes may also vary. For example, in some embodiments, the inner holes may have a diameter of about 5-10 mm, about 10-15 mm, or about 15-20 mm, and the outer holes may have a diameter of about the same size as the inner holes, a diameter between about 1-1.5x, about 1.5x- 2x, or more than 2x the diameter of the inner holes, so long as the insects can escape and predators are sufficiently prevented from entering.

[0067] In some embodiments, the diameter of openings in the lid is greater than the diameter of openings in the base. In some embodiments, the diameter of openings in the lid is smaller than the diameter of openings in the base. In some embodiments, the larger openings, whether they are in the lid or in the base, can be larger than about 21 mm in diameter to ensure no overlap or blocking of the exit.Cover

[0068] In some embodiments, the device comprises a cover or a roof. In some embodiments, the cover or roof provides shade to the containers and / or cassettes to reduce the temperature of the containers and / or cassettes. In some embodiments, the device comprises the housing as described in more detail below and the housing comprises the roof. In some embodiments, the roof is at an angle 1103 to shed water from the roof and prevent water from collecting on the roof as depicted in FIG. 11C. In some embodiments, the roof comprises two-upward facing planes angled to each other so that water runs off each plane. In some embodiments, the angle of each plane to one another is between about 125 to 170 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle of each plane toone another is between about 135 to 155 degrees, e.g. 148 degrees. In some embodiments, the two upward-facing planes of the roof are angled at about 148 degrees to each other.

[0069] In some embodiments, the device may comprise a cover 303 as depicted in FIG. 3. In some embodiments, the cover 303 is configured to cover at least a portion of the device 100. In some embodiments, the cover is configured to cover at least a portion of the container 101. In some embodiments, the cover is configured to cover at least a portion of the base. In some embodiments, the cover is configured to cover at least a portion of the lid 102. In some embodiments, the cover is configured to cover at least a portion of the base and / or at least a portion of the lid. In some embodiments, the cover is a shading structure as depicted in FIG. 3.Cage

[0070] In some embodiments, the device may further comprise a cage 302 as depicted in FIG. 3. In some embodiments, the cage 302 is configured to enclose the container. In some embodiments, the cage 302 is configured to enclose the container, allowing adults of the lepidopteran insect to exit. In some embodiments, the cage is configured to enclose the container, preventing predators of the lepidopteran insect from accessing the device. In some embodiments, the cage is configured to enclose the container, allowing adults of the lepidopteran insect to exit, and prevent predators of the lepidopteran insect from accessing the device. In some embodiments, the cage comprises a mesh cage or a gabion as depicted in FIG. 3.

[0071] In some embodiments, the device comprises a cage (e.g., gabion) configured to protect stacked containers and to provide shelving for stacking the containers as depicted in FIG. 4B.

[0072] In some embodiments, the device comprises a cage (e.g., gabion) comprising multiple devices in one layer (e.g., shelf). In some embodiments, a single layer of the cage may hold 1, 2, 3, 4, or more containers. In some embodiments, a level of the cage may hold 4 containers as depicted in FIG. 4C. In some embodiments, the device may comprise a cage (e.g., gabion) comprising multiple layers, where each layer may comprise multiple devices in each layer.

[0073] In some embodiments, the device may comprise an external cassette holder configured for containers (e.g., each of which can be used as a cassette) to slide in and out of. In some embodiments, the cassette holder may comprise multiple layers (e.g., shelves or layers), where each level is configured for a container (e.g., cassette) to slide in and out of as depicted in FIG. 4D.

[0074] In some embodiments, the cage is referred to as a housing.Stand

[0075] In some embodiments, the device may further comprise a support 301 configured to elevate the device above a ground level as depicted in FIG. 3. In some embodiments, the device may comprise a tower with a stand (e.g., pole) 301 to raise the device as depicted in FIG. 4A. In some embodiments, the device may comprise a container and spacers to separate each container as depicted in FIG. 4A. In some embodiments, the stand may comprise wood or metal. In some embodiments, the stand is configured to raise the container above the ground by a distance between about 0.5 m to about 2.0 m. In some embodiments, the stand is at a height to ensure the device is out of reach from predators of the pupae. In some embodiments, placing the device on the stand reduces predation of the pupae. In some embodiments, the stand raises the device above the ground to ensure that the containers and / or cassettes are raised above the ground. In some embodiments, the stand is configured to raise the container above the ground by a distance between about 1.0 m to about 1.2 m. In some embodiments, the stand is configured to raise the container above the ground by less than 0.5 m. In some embodiments, the stand is configured to raise the container above the ground by greater than 2.0 m. In some embodiments, the stand may comprise wood or metal.

[0076] In some embodiments, the stand holds more than one device. In some embodiments, the stand holds 1, 2, 3, or 4, devices. In some embodiments the stand holds one device. In some embodiments, the stand holds 2 devices. In some embodiments, device or devices are affixed to the stand. In some embodiments, the device or devices are tethered to the stand to prevent wind or weather from blowing the device off of the stand.

[0077] In some embodiments, the device is placed on the ground. In some embodiments, the device is buried or partially buried to help keep the device cool and / or prevent predation. In some embodiments, the device is fixed to the ground to prevent the device from moving.Housing

[0078] In some embodiments, the device may further comprise a housing 401 configured to house the container as depicted in FIGS. 4A-D. In some embodiments, the housing is configured to house multiple containers. In some embodiments, the housing may comprise a plurality of openings configured to allow adults of the lepidopteran insect to exit. In some embodiments, theplurality of openings in the housing is configured to align with the plurality of openings in the sidewall of the base and / or the plurality of openings in the sidewall of the lid. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings in the base, in the lid, and / or in the housing are configured to provide air communication between the plurality of compartments and an outside environment. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings in the base, in the lid, and / or in the housing are configured to regulate temperature inside the container. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings in the base, in the lid, and / or in the housing are configured to prevent rain and / or predators of the lepidopteran insect from entering the plurality of compartments. In some embodiments, the container may consist of one layer of the plurality of compartments. In some embodiments, the container may comprise multiple layers of the plurality of compartments. In cases where there are multiple layers of the plurality of compartments in the device, ventilation can be used to prevent or reduce overheating in the device comprising pupae of the lepidopteran insect.

[0079] In some embodiments, the device may comprise a housing 401 connected to a stand 301 as depicted in FIGS. 4A, 5A-C, 7A-B. In some embodiments, the stand 301 is configured to raise the housing (e.g., the housing of the device) above a ground level.

[0080] FIGS. 5A-B show an exemplary “bird table” style design, where a housing holding three containers is mounted on a shelf (e.g., bird table) of a stand in accordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments, the housing is mounted on a stand via a shelf supported by brackets as depicted in FIG. 5A. In some embodiments, the housing may comprise elongated openings 501 placed between each container housed within the housing to provide for ventilation as depicted in the schematic of FIG. 5B. Additionally, such a housing may comprise openings for an air connection between inside the housing and containers with the outside environment of the housing. Such openings may be optimized for escape of the adult insect (e.g., moth) and for preventing entry of predators. FIG. 5C shows an image of single housing designed to hold three containers, where the housing comprises both round ports for ventilation within each container and elongated ports for ventilation between each container.

[0081] In some aspects, provided herein are housings that in addition to opening (e.g., ports) comprise edge folds 601 as depicted in FIGS. 6A-C. In some embodiments, edge folds are configured to create a gap between containers. In some embodiments, the gaps between containers created by the edge folds, allow for better ventilation within the housing, between and around eachcontainer. Two housings comprising edge folds 601 and a white surface are shown in the image of FIG. 6A in accordance with some embodiments. A top-down view of a housing, in accordance with some embodiments, with edge folds 601 folded inward is shown in FIG. 6B. A side view of a housing comprising edge folds, elongated openings, and openings for exiting of adult insect (e.g., moths) is shown in FIG. 6C in accordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments, the openings of the housing that align with the openings of the container are larger than the openings of the container to help with alignment, as can be seen in FIG. 6C.

[0082] In some embodiments, the housing is affixed to the stand in a manner to prevent rotation, while raising the housing (e.g., housing of the device) above a ground level. FIGS. 7A- B both depict an exemplary housing fixed to a stand via a bracket (e.g., an arm) to provide support and prevent movement (e.g., rotation). FIG. 7A depicts the backside of a device comprising a housing mounted to the stand in a manner to prevent rotation and movement, in accordance with some embodiments. FIG. 7B depicts the frontside of a device comprising a housing mounted to the stand in a manner to prevent rotation and movement, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0083] In some embodiments, the device comprises Design A, exemplified by FIGS. HAUL. In some embodiments, the housing is exterior of the device such as depicted in FIG. HA. In some embodiments, the housing is capable of holding multiple containers or cassettes. In some embodiments, the housing holds 1 cassette. In some embodiments, the housing holds 2 cassettes. In some embodiments, the housing holds 3 cassettes. In some embodiments, the housing holds 4 cassettes. In some embodiments, the devices or the housing are between about 10 cm to 90 cm wide, between about 16 cm to 144 cm long, and between about 16 cm to 150 cm tall to the top of the roof. In some embodiments, the devices or the housing are between about 10-20 cm, 20-30 cm, 30-40 cm, 40-50 cm, 50-60 cm, 60-70 cm, 70-80 cm, 80-90 cm, or more than about 90 cm wide and between about 10-20 cm, 20-30 cm, 30-40 cm, 40-50 cm, 50-60 cm, 60-70 cm, 70-80 cm, 80-90 cm, 90-100 cm, 100-110 cm, 110-120 cm, 130-140 cm, or more than about 140 cm long, and between about 10-20 cm, 20-30 cm, 30-40 cm, 40-50 cm, 50-60 cm, 60-70 cm, 70-80 cm, 80-90 cm, 90-100 cm, 100-110 cm, 110-120 cm, 130-140 cm, 140-150 cm, or more than about 150 cm tall. In some embodiments, the device or housing is between 20-40 cm wide, such as, for example, about 30 cm wide. In some embodiments, the device or housing is between 40-60 cm long, such as, for example, about 48 cm long. In some embodiments, the device or housing is between about 40-60 cm tall, such as, for example, about 50 cm tall. In some embodiments, the device or housing is about 30 cm wide, about 48 cm long, and about 50 cm tall.Ventilation

[0084] In some embodiments, the device or housing comprises air vents or holes. In some embodiments, the air vents allow air flow while retaining structural integrity. In some embodiments, the air vents are designed to allow air to enter from any direction to cool the containers or cassettes. In some embodiments, the air vents allow cooler air to flow over and / or under each container or cassette to dissipate heat that rises from the containers or cassettes. In some embodiments, the device or housing comprises air vents or holes on all four sides of the device or housing. In some embodiments, there are multiple air vents or holes on each side of the device or housing. In some embodiments, there are air vents or holes above each cassette within the device or housing to keep the cassettes cool. In some embodiments,

[0085] In some embodiments, the size and dimensions of the air vents may vary so long as the structural integrity and airflow are maintained. In some embodiments, an air vent is about 50-60, about 60-70, about 70-80, about 80-90, about 90-100, about 100-110, about 110-120, about 120- 130, about 130-140, about 140-150, be about 150-160, about 160-170, about 170-180, about 180- 190, about 190-200, about 200-210, about 210-220, about 220-230, about 230-240, about 240- 250, be about 250-260, about 260-270, about 270-280, about 280-290, about 290-300, about 300- 310, about 310-350, or more than about 350 mm long, and about 10-20, about 20-30, about 30- 40, about 40-50, be about 50-60, about 60-70, about 70-80, about 80-90, about 90-100, about 100- 110, about 110-120, or more than about 120 mm wide, so long as the structural integrity and airflow throughout the device are maintained. In some embodiments, an air vent is about 150-200 mm long, such as, for example, about 170 mm long. In some embodiments, an air vent is about 30-50 mm long, such as, for example, about 40 mm long. In some embodiments, the air vents are about 170 mm long and about 40 mm wide.

[0086] In some embodiments, the device comprises a head space between the roof and / or cover and the cassettes. In some embodiments, the head space allows for airflow to cool or maintain the temperature of the cassettes.

[0087] In some embodiments, the device comprises space above and / or below each cassette to allow for airflow between cassettes. In some embodiments, the space is to reduce or maintain the temperature of the cassettes. In some embodiments, the space is designed to align with the air vents in the device, allowing for air to enter from any direction to cool the cassettes, with cooler air flowing over the top of each cassette to dissipate heat that rises from the cassettes.Materials

[0088] In some embodiments, any one or more of the components (e.g., container, lid, base, sidewalls, etc.) of the device may comprise a temperature insulating material. In some embodiments, the base, the spacer, the lid, the cover, and / or the housing may comprise the temperature insulating material. In some embodiments, any one or more of the components of the device may comprise a recyclable material. In some embodiments, any one or more of the components of the device may comprise cardboard or a plastic material. In some embodiments, any one or more of the components of the device may comprise a corrugated material. In some embodiments, the corrugated material is cardboard or plastic. In some embodiments, the device any one or more of the components of the device may comprise a lightweight, weatherproof corrugated polypropylene board, such as Correx™. In some embodiments, the device any one or more of the components of the device may comprise a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) board, such as Foamex™.

[0089] In some embodiments, the device may comprise a material that is a certain color. In some embodiments, the device may comprise a material that reduces temperature increases from solar gain through reflective materials or similar. In some embodiments, the device comprises a white plastic or white cardboard. In some embodiments, the material used to make the device is white to reflect sunlight and reduce temperature increases due to sun exposure. In some embodiments, the final outer color of the device is white or mostly white. In some embodiments, graphics are printed on, e.g., the outside of the device.

[0090] In some embodiments, the base, the spacer, the lid, the cover, and / or the housing are made of cardboard(s). In some embodiments, the cardboard(s) is about 3 mm in thickness. In some embodiments, wherein the cardboard(s) is about 3 mm in thickness and about 420 g / m2in grammage. In some embodiments, the cardboard(s) is about 3 mm in thickness or more. In some embodiments, the cardboard(s) is about 3 mm in thickness or less. In some embodiments, the cardboard(s) is about 420 g / m2in grammage. In some embodiments, the cardboard(s) is about 420 g / m2in grammage or more. In some embodiments, the cardboard(s) is about 420 g / m2in grammage or less. In some embodiments, the cardboard(s) may have a flute type, which is the corrugated section between two liners, and by changing the height (and therefore the size of the flutes) different performance characteristics can be achieved. In some embodiments, the cardboard(s) may have a flute of about 5 mm, about 4.5 mm, about 4 mm, about 3.5 mm, about 3mm, about 2.5 mm, about 2 mm, about 1.5 mm, or about 1 mm. In some embodiments, the cardboard(s) is flute type A (5 mm), flute type B (3 mm), flute type C (4 mm), flute type E (1.5 mm), or flute type F (1 mm). In some embodiments, the cardboard(s) is double walled and combine one or more flutes to create a grade such as an “EB” flute (4.5 mm) or “BC” flute (6 mm).

[0091] In some embodiments, the external surfaces of the base, the lid, the cover, and / or the housing are of a light color. In some embodiments, the external surfaces of the base, the lid, the cover, and / or the housing are of a lighter color than their internal surfaces and the surfaces of the spacer. In some embodiments, the external surfaces are white. In some embodiments, the internal surfaces and the surfaces of the spacer are brown. In some embodiments, the base and / or the lid may comprise a single layer of cardboards, and / or the spacer comprises double layers of cardboards. In some embodiments, the external surfaces of the base, the lid, the cover, and / or the housing are configured to reflect solar radiation.

[0092] In some embodiments, the device may further comprise any one or more of the components of the device comprises a coating, optionally wherein the external surfaces of the base, the lid, the cover, and / or the housing are coated with a waterproof coating, a temperature insulating coating, or a combination thereof.

[0093] In some embodiments, the housing is referred to as the cage.

[0094] In some embodiments, the device comprises fasteners. The fasteners may be made of various materials such as, e.g., plastic. In some embodiments, the fasteners are nylon fasteners. In some embodiments, the fasteners are capable of connecting two parts of the device and hold them together. In some embodiments, the device comprises flat parts such as that depicted in FIG. 11D that is folded to assemble the device and held together with the fasteners.Environmental

[0095] In some embodiments, the device (e.g., the container of the device) is configured to maintain the temperature in the space of the container (e.g., the compartments) between about 15°C and about 35°C. In some embodiments, the device (e.g., the container of the device) is configured to maintain the temperature in the space of the container (e.g., the compartments) at about 15°C or less. In some embodiments, the device (e.g., the container of the device) is configured to maintain the temperature in the space of the container (e.g., the compartments) atabout 30°C or more. In some embodiments, the device (e.g., the container of the device) is configured to maintain the temperature in the space of the container (e.g., the compartments) between 15°C and 35°C. In some embodiments, each compartment of the device is configured to maintain a temperature of between about between about 15°C and about 35°C. In some embodiments, each compartment of the device is configured to maintain a temperature of between about between about 15°C and about 35°C, wherein the device (e.g., the container) is in the closed configuration.

[0096] In some embodiments, the device (e.g., the container of the device) is configured to maintain the humidity in the space of the container (e.g., the compartments) above about 45%, 55%, 75%, or 85% when the container is in a closed configuration. In some embodiments, the device (e.g., the container of the device) is configured to maintain the humidity in the space of the container (e.g., the compartments) above about 75% when the container is in a closed configuration. In some embodiments, the device is configured to maintain a humidity of between about 65% to about 90% in the space of the device, containing the insect, when the device is in the closed configuration. In some embodiments, the device is configured to maintain a humidity of about 75% in the space of the device containing the insect when the device is in the closed configuration.

[0097] In some embodiments, the device (e.g., the container of the device) is configured to maintain the temperature in the space of the container (e.g., the compartments) between about 15°C and about 35°C and is configured to maintain the humidity above about 75% when the container is in a closed configuration.

[0098] In some embodiments, the container is configured to maintain the temperature in the space between about 20°C and about 30°C and the humidity above about 80% when the container is in a closed configuration.

[0099] In some embodiments, the container is configured to hold at least 12,000 pupae of the lepidopteran insect. In some embodiments, the container of the device is configured to hold between about 1,800 and about 12,000 pupae of the lepidopteran insect. In some embodiments, the container is configured to hold about 5,000 pupae of the lepidopteran insect. In some embodiments, the housing of the device is configured to hold three of the containers configured to hold about 5,000 pupae of the lepidopteran insect. In some embodiments, each compartment 104 is configured to hold between about 300 and about 2,000 pupae of the lepidopteran insect. Insome embodiments, each compartment is configured to hold about 800 pupae of the lepidopteran insect. In some embodiments, the device is configured for the pupae of the lepidopteran insect to form a layer of pupae with depth between about 0.5 cm and about 3 cm in each of the plurality of compartments, optionally wherein the layer is about 1 cm in pupae depth. In some embodiments, the container is configured to comprise 6 compartments as depicted in FIG. IB and FIG. 2. In some embodiments, the container and / or compartment may optionally comprise a sensor as shown in the middle compartment at the bottom of the image of FIG. 2.

[0100] In some embodiments, the lepidopteran insect is a species of the genus Spodoptera, Helicoverpa, Chrysodeixis, Anticarsia, Peridroma, or Heliothis. In some embodiments, the lepidopteran insect is Spodoptera frugiperda, Spodoptera exigua, Spodoptera littoralis, Helicoverpa armigera, Peridroma saucia, Helicoverpa zea, Chrysodeixis includens, Anticarsia gemmatalis, or Heliothis virescens. The devices are designed to accommodate various different stages of the insect Life cycle. In some embodiments, the lepidopteran insect is loaded into the device in the pupal stage. In some embodiments, the lepidopteran insect undergoes eclosion within the device. In some embodiments, the lepidopteran insect leaves the device in the adult s age.

[0101] In some embodiments, the pupae of the lepidopteran insect is genetically engineered. In some embodiments, the pupae of the lepidopteran insect may comprise a gene expression system capable of producing a effector having a lethal, deleterious, or sterilizing effect, optionally wherein the gene expression system is a sex-specific gene expression system, optionally wherein the gene expression system and / or effector is activated in the absence of a substance, optionally wherein the substance is a chemical ligand, optionally wherein the chemical ligand is tetracycline or an analog or derivative thereof. In some embodiments, at least about 10%, at least about 20%, at least about 30%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%, at least about 99%, or 100% of the pupae of the lepidopteran insect in the plurality of compartments in the device are males. In some embodiments, the pupae of the lepidopteran insect in the plurality of compartments in the device are between about 16-day old and about 19-day old from when eggs are placed into a rearing chamber. In some embodiments, 0%, about 1%, about 5%, about 10%, about 20%, about 30%, about 40%, about 50%, about 60%, about 70%, about 80%, about 90%, about 95%, about 99%, or 100% of the pupae of the lepidopteran insect in the plurality of compartments in the device may have eclosed. 1II. MethodsShipping methods

[0102] In some aspects, disclosed herein is a method for delivering an insect, comprising storing a device described herein at about 18°C, wherein the device comprises pupae of the lepidopteran insect in the plurality of compartments.

[0103] In some embodiments, provided herein is a method comprising shipping a device as described herein at about 5 °C, about 10°C, about 15 °C, or about 30°C, wherein the device comprises pupae of the lepidopteran insect in the plurality of compartments.

[0104] In some embodiments, a plurality of the containers are stacked in multiple layers during shipping. FIG. 8A depicts exemplary containers (e.g., devices) stacked on a pallet to be prepared for shipping. In some embodiments, in each layer the containers are stacked in rows and columns, and there is a gap between adjacent rows and adjacent columns. FIG. 8B depicts a stacking configuration comprising gaps between adjacent rows and adjacent columns of containers, where the gaps are optimized for ventilation during shipping, in accordance with some embodiments. In FIG. 8B, each container of the first stacking layer is outlined by a dashed line and each container of the second stacking layer is outlined by a solid line.

[0105] In some aspects, provided herein is a method comprising placing a device as described herein, and allowing the pupae to eclose and adults of the lepidopteran insect to exit the device and into the field. In some embodiments, the device is placed in the field for between about 4 and about 15 days. In some embodiments, the device is placed in the field for 4 days or less. In some embodiments, the device is placed in the field for 15 days or more.

[0106] In some embodiments, the devices are shipped before assembly and can be assembled at the field or nearby. In some embodiments, the device is flat and is assembled by folding and using fasteners.Methods of Use

[0107] In some aspects, provided herein are methods for using the device. In some embodiments, the method may comprise using the device, wherein the device comprises one container. In some embodiments, the device may comprise multiple containers. In some embodiments, the method may comprise using the device, wherein device comprises between about 3 and about 6 containers. In some embodiments, the device may comprise 6 or more containers.

[0108] In some embodiments, the method may comprise placing a device in the field everyweek for between about 4 and about 8 weeks during crop growth. In some embodiments, the method may comprise placing a device in the field every week for 4 weeks or less. In some embodiments, the method may comprise placing a device in the field every week for 8 weeks or more.

[0109] Provided herein are methods and devices illustrated using a dosing map. In some embodiments, the dosing map may show the position of a device, or the positions of multiple devices in a field or fields. In some embodiments, the position of a device in the field is referred to as the release point (RP). In such embodiments, each RP is referred to as RP1 or RP2 as depicted in FIG. 9. The area enclosed by the concentric circles as depicted in FIG. 9 may represent the area of coverage by each device (e.g., release point or RP) at a particular radius from the RP. In some embodiments, the area of coverage may comprise the area inhabited by insects (e.g., lepidopteran insects, such as FAW, etc.) released from the device. In some embodiments, the radius of the area of coverage of a device is about 200 m, 400 m, 600 m, 800 m, 1000 m, or more. In some embodiments, the radius of the area of coverage is 200 m or less. In some embodiments, the number of Lepidopteran insects occurs at a frequency up to around 200 m from the release point. In some embodiments, the number of released Lepidopteran insects occurs at a frequency up to around 720 m from the release point. In some embodiments, the number of released Lepidopteran insects occurs at a frequency up to around 1000 m from the release point.

[0110] In some embodiments, a pheromone trap or traps are placed in the field along with a device or devices. Pheromone traps are depicted as P1-P12 as shown in FIG. 9. In some embodiments, pheromone traps are for monitoring the numbers of wild lepidopteran insects and / or released lepidopteran insects in the field.

[0111] In some embodiments, the method may comprise placing a device in the field, wherein the area of coverage of the device (e.g., coverage of released insects, or insects released from the device) is between about 100 and about 500 acres. In some embodiments, the area of coverage of the device (e.g., unit) is about 100 acres or less. In some embodiments, the area of coverage of the device is about 500 acres or more. In some embodiments, the area of coverage of the device is about 400 acres. In some embodiments, the area of coverage of the device may comprise an area of about 100 acres, about 200 acres, about 300 acres, about 400 acres, or about 500 acres. In some embodiments, the area of coverage of the device may comprise about 400 acres.

[0112] In some embodiments, the number of devices placed in a field or fields may comprise 1device or more. In some embodiments, the number of devices placed in the field or fields is between 1 to about 100 devices or more. In some embodiments, the area of coverage of a device may overlap with the area of coverage of at least one other device placed in the field or fields. In some embodiments, overlapping areas of coverage of multiple devices may comprise matrix coverage of the field. In some embodiments, the overlapping areas of coverage of multiple devices may comprise a coverage matrix.

[0113] In some embodiments, the adults of the lepidopteran insect that have exited the device may overflood wild males in the field at a ratio between about 1:1 and 1000:1. In some embodiments, the adults of the lepidopteran insect that have exited the device may overflood wild males in the field at a ratio of 1:1, 3:1, 20: 1, 50:1, 100:1, 500:1, 1000:1, or a ratio of greater than 1000:1. In some embodiments, the adults of the lepidopteran insect that have exited the device may overflood wild males in the field at a ratio of about 1:1. In some embodiments, the adults of the lepidopteran insect that have exited the device may overflood wild males in the field at a ratio of less than 1:1.

[0114] In some embodiments, the adults of the lepidopteran insect that have exited (e.g., released from) the device are males and mate with wild females of the same species. In some embodiments, the lepidopteran insect males that have exited and have mated with wild females of the same species, are wild-type lepidopteran insect males. In some embodiments, the wildtype lepidopteran insect males may comprise wild-type insecticide-susceptible lepidopteran insect males. In some embodiments, the wild-type lepidopteran insect males are released from the device to reverse insecticide resistance of the wild lepidopteran insects (e.g., naturally occurring lepidopteran insects) in the field. In some embodiments, the wild- type lepidopteran insect released from the device may comprise a radiation- sterilized lepidopteran insect.

[0115] In some embodiments, the male lepidopteran insects released from the device may comprise a gene expression system capable of producing an effector having a lethal, deleterious, or sterilizing effect, optionally wherein the gene expression system is a sex-specific gene expression system, optionally wherein the gene expression system and / or effector is activated in the absence of a substance, optionally wherein the substance is a chemical ligand, or optionally wherein the chemical ligand is tetracycline or an analog or derivative thereof.

[0116] In some embodiments, the method may comprise mating of the males (e.g., males released from the device) with the wild females (e.g., naturally occurring females present in the field prior to device placement) resulting in at least some offspring that inherit the gene expression system, thereby suppressing a population of wild insects of said same species in thefield and / or causing resistance reversal and / or susceptibility of insects of said same species to (a) crops expressing an endotoxin, or (b) chemical insecticides.

[0117] In some embodiments, the field comprises a field of corn, a field of soybeans, a field of cotton, a field of rice, a field of sorghum, a field of millet, a field of wheat, a field of peanuts, a field of sugarcane, a field of orange trees, a field of apple trees, a field of legumes, and / or a field of vegetables. In some embodiments, the area of coverage for a device covers multiple fields. In some embodiments, the area of coverage for a device encompasses 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 or more fields. In some embodiments, the area of coverage for a device encompasses multiple fields that have different crops in each field. In some embodiments, the area of coverage for a device encompasses one or more fields wherein each field comprises multiple crops. In some embodiments, the area of coverage for a device covers numerous crops such as com, soybeans, rice, sorghum, millet, wheat, peanuts, sugarcane, orange trees, apple trees, legumes, and / or vegetables.

[0118] In some embodiments, the field may comprise a corn field comprising genetically modified (GMO) corn and / or non-GMO corn. In some embodiments, the crop comprises corn. In some embodiments, the com field may comprise com expressing an endotoxin. In some embodiments, the endotoxin may comprise Bt delta, Vip3a, Cryl, Cry2, Cry3, Cry4, Cry5, Cry6, Cry7, Cry8, Cry9, Cry 10, Cryl l, Cry 12, Cry 13, Cry 14, Cry 15, Cry 16, Cry 17, Cry 18, Cryl9, Cry20, Cry21, Cry22, Cry23, Cry24, Cry25, Cry26, Cry27, Cry 28, Cry 29, Cry 30, Cry31, Cry32, Cry33, Cry34, Cry35, Cry36, Cry37, Cry38, Cry39, Cry40, Cry41, Cry42, Cry43, Cry44, Cry45, Cry 46, Cry47, Cry49, Cry 51, Cry55, Cytl, Cyt2, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the GMO plant such as com in the field comprises Cryl Ac, CrylAc+Cry2Ab, Cryl Ab, Cryl A.105, Cry IF, CrylFa2, CrylF+CrylAc, Cry2Ab, Cry3A, mCry3A, Cry3Bbl, Cry34Abl, Cry35Abl, Vip3A, mCry3A, Cry9c, CBI-Bt, or a combination thereof.

[0119] In some embodiments, the com field has been sprayed with a pesticide for the lepidopteran insect prior to placing the device in the field. In some embodiments, the com field has not been sprayed with a pesticide for the lepidopteran insect prior to placing the device in the field.

[0120] In some embodiments, the field may comprise a corn field, a soybean field, a sugarcane field, a millet field, a sorghum field, a rice field, or a cotton field.

[0121] In some aspects, provided herein is a method, comprising: obtaining information of a wild population of a lepidopteran insect in a field, optionally wherein obtaining the informationcomprises forecasting; selecting a location in the field, a date, and / or a time during the day based on the obtained information; placing a device as described herein at the selected location, time during the day, and / or date; and allowing adults of the lepidopteran insect to emerge and exit the device, wherein the adults mate with the wild population.

[0122] In some embodiments, the method may comprise measuring the number of males of the lepidopteran insect that have exited a single container. In some embodiments, the method may comprise measuring the number of males of the lepidopteran insect that have exited multiple containers in one or more devices in the field. In some embodiments, the method may comprise using the number of males that have exited a single container and / or the number of males that have exited multiple containers in one or more devices in the field to inform the number of containers and / or devices in a given area, the locations of the containers and / or devices in the given area, and / or the frequency of placing the containers and / or devices in the given area.III. Computer

[0123] The present disclosure provides computer systems that are programmed to implement and / or be used in connection with devices and methods of the disclosure. In some aspects, provided herein is a non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising processor-executable instructions to cause a processor to: obtain information of a wild population of a lepidopteran insect in a field, optionally wherein the processor-executable instructions cause the processor to forecast the information; provide instruction or recommendation to a user for selecting a location in the field, a date, and / or a time during the day based on the obtained information and for placing a device as described herein at the selected location, time during the day, and / or date. In some embodiments, the obtained information may comprise crop type, crop growth stage, weather information, or other.

[0124] In some embodiments, the method provided herein or the non-transitory computer- readable medium as provided herein is for use in controlling the wild population of the lepidopteran insect in the geographic region. In some embodiments, the adults that exit the device provided herein may comprise males only or females only, or include both males and females. In some embodiments, the adults that exit the device are: genetically engineered insects that mate with wild insects of the same species of the opposite sex, and sterile or sterilized insects that mate with wild insects of the same species of the opposite sex, optionally wherein the insects are sterilized using radiation, thereby controlling the wild population in the geographic region. In some embodiments, the lepidopteran insect is a moth (e.g., an adult moth)of the genus Spodoptera, Helicoverpa, Chrysodeixis, Anticarsia, Peridroma, or Heliothis.

[0125] In some aspects, provided herein a computer system that is programmed or otherwise configured to implement methods of delivering an insect, for instance, by interfacing with a potential user or a user of the device closed herein. The computer system can regulate various aspects of the present disclosure, such as, for example, controlling the installation, operation, maintenance, and / or replacement of the device disclosed herein. The computer system can be an electronic device of a user or a computer system that is remotely located with respect to the electronic device. The electronic device can be a mobile electronic device.

[0126] In some embodiments, the computer system comprises a central processing unit (CPU), which can be a single core or multi core processor, or a plurality of processors for parallel processing. In some embodiments, the computer system comprises memory or memory location (e.g., random-access memory, read-only memory, flash memory), electronic storage unit (e.g., hard disk), communication interface for communicating with one or more other systems, and peripheral devices, such as cache, other memory, data storage and / or electronic display adapters. In some embodiments, the memory, storage unit, interface and peripheral devices are in communication with the CPU through a communication bus such as a motherboard. In some embodiments, the storage unit is a data storage unit or data repository for storing data. In some embodiments, the computer system is operatively coupled to a computer network with the aid of the communication interface. In some embodiments, the network is the Internet, an internet and / or extranet, or an intranet and / or extranet that is in communication with the Internet. In some embodiments, the network is a telecommunication and / or data network. In some embodiments, the network comprises one or more computer servers, which can enable distributed computing, such as cloud computing. The network, in some cases with the aid of the computer system, can implement a peer-to-peer network, which may enable devices coupled to the computer system to behave as a client or a server.

[0127] In some embodiments, the CPU of the computer system can execute a sequence of machine-readable instructions, which can be embodied in a program or software. The instructions may be stored in a memory location, such as the memory. The instructions can be directed to the CPU, which can subsequently program or otherwise configure the CPU to implement methods of the present disclosure. The CPU can be part of a circuit, such as an integrated circuit. One or more other components of the system can be included in the circuit.

[0128] In some embodiments, the storage unit can store files, such as drivers, libraries, and saved programs. The storage unit can store user data, e.g., user preferences and user programs.The computer system in some cases can include one or more additional data storage units that are external to the computer system, such as located on a remote server that is in communication with the computer system through an intranet or the Internet.

[0129] In some embodiments, the computer system communicates with one or more remote computer systems through the network, including a local area network (“LAN”); wide area network (“WAN”), such as the Internet; metropolitan area network (“MAN”); point-to-point or peer-to-peer connection; etc. Communication with other devices may be accomplished using any suitable networking protocol. For example, one suitable networking protocol may include the Internet Protocol (“IP”), Transmission Control Protocol (“TCP”), User Datagram Protocol (“UDP”), or combinations thereof, such as TCP / IP or UDP / IP.

[0130] In some embodiments, the computer system communicates with a remote computer system of a user (e.g., a cloud computing system, a server system). Examples of remote computer systems include personal computers (e.g., portable PC), slate or tablet PC’s (e.g., Apple® iPad, Samsung® Galaxy Tab), telephones, Smart phones (e.g., Apple® iPhone, Android-enabled device, Blackberry®), or personal digital assistants. The user can access the computer system via the network.

[0131] In some embodiments, the computer system comprises a front end. In some embodiments, the front end is a native application (app) for a particular operating system or a web app. In some embodiments, the native app is a mobile app for e.g., Google, Android, or iOS. In some embodiments, the front end uses a JavaScript framework. In some embodiments, the front end platform links the app to a cloud service. In some embodiments, the front end is based on Angular. In some embodiments, the cloud service is based on Azure. In some embodiments, the system further comprises a back end. In some embodiments, the back end is a cloud service. In some embodiments, the cloud back end service comprises data storage, security and / or processing. In some embodiments, the app is a preconfigured app. In some embodiments, the preconfigured app comprises a user-friendly interface for a computer or mobile device, such as a companion web app.

[0132] Methods as described herein can be implemented by way of machine (e.g., computer processor) executable code stored on an electronic storage location of the computer system, such as, for example, on the memory or electronic storage unit. The machine executable or machine- readable code can be provided in the form of software. During use, the code can be executed by the processor. In some cases, the code can be retrieved from the storage unit and stored on the memory for ready access by the processor. In some situations, machine-executable instructionsare stored on memory. The code can be pre-compiled and configured for use with a machine having a processer adapted to execute the code or can be compiled during runtime. The code can be supplied in a programming language that can be selected to enable the code to execute in a pre-compiled or as-compiled fashion.

[0133] Aspects of the systems and methods provided herein, such as the computer system, can be embodied in programming. Various aspects of the technology may be thought of as “products” or “articles of manufacture” typically in the form of machine (or processor) executable code and / or associated data that is carried on or embodied in a type of machine readable medium. Machine-executable code can be stored on an electronic storage unit, such as memory (e.g., read-only memory, random-access memory, flash memory) or a hard disk. “Storage” type media can include any or all of the tangible memory of the computers, processors or the like, or associated modules thereof, such as various semiconductor memories, tape drives, disk drives and the like, which may provide non-transitory storage at any time for the software programming. All or portions of the software may at times be communicated through the Internet or various other telecommunication networks. Such communications, for example, may enable loading of the software from one computer or processor into another, for example, from a management server or host computer into the computer platform of an application server. Thus, another type of media that may bear the software elements includes optical, electrical, and electromagnetic waves, such as used across physical interfaces between local devices, through wired and optical landline networks and over various air-links. The physical elements that carry such waves, such as wired or wireless links, optical links, or the like, also may be considered as media bearing the software. As used herein, unless restricted to non-transitory, tangible “storage” media, terms such as computer or machine “readable medium” refer to any medium that participates in providing instructions to a processor for execution.

[0134] Such processors may comprise, or may be in communication with, media, for example one or more non-transitory computer-readable media, that may store processor-executable instructions that, when executed by the processor, can cause the processor to perform methods according to this disclosure as carried out, or assisted, by a processor. Carrier-wave transmission media may take the form of electric or electromagnetic signals, or acoustic or light waves such as those generated during radio frequency (RF) and infrared (IR) data communications.Examples of non-transitory computer-readable medium may include, but are not limited to, an electronic, optical, magnetic, or other storage device capable of providing a processor, such as the processor in a web server, with processor-executable instructions. Other examples of non-transitory computer-readable media include, but are not limited to, a floppy disk, CD-ROM, magnetic disk, memory chip, ROM, RAM, ASIC, configured processor, all optical media, all magnetic tape or other magnetic media, or any other medium from which a computer processor can read. Many of these forms of computer readable media may be involved in carrying one or more sequences of one or more instructions to a processor for execution. The processor, and the processing, described may be in one or more structures, and may be dispersed through one or more structures. The processor may comprise code to carry out methods (or parts of methods) according to this disclosure.

[0135] Methods and systems of the present disclosure can be implemented by way of one or more algorithms. An algorithm can be implemented by way of software upon execution by the central processing unit. The algorithm can, for example, determine optimal conditions for implementing the methods and using the compositions of the present disclosure.

[0136] In some embodiments, the computer system can be or is in communication with an electronic display that comprises a user interface (UI) for providing, for example, an interface to start and / or monitor the progress of egg hatching, insect development, and / or insect deployment. Examples of UI’s include, without limitation, a graphical user interface (GUI) and web-based user interface.

[0137] In some embodiments, the pest control device, device, kit, or system (including the computer system) disclosed herein can be used in combination with a customer relationship management (CRM) software. In some embodiments, the pest control device, device, kit, or system can be used in combination with an enterprise resource planning (ERP) software. In some embodiments, the pest control device, device, kit, or system can be used in combination with a software comprising CRM and ERP. In some embodiments, the CRM and / or ERP software is used to manage business activities. Non-limiting examples of business activities include management of customers, orders (e.g., logistics operation and / or fulfilment), and contracts. In some embodiments, the pest control device, device, kit, or system is used in connection with an ERP / CRM software which may but does not need to be based on MS Dynamics.

[0138] In some embodiments, the app provides an interface facilitating the user to create an account or sign up. In some embodiments, the app provides an interface facilitating a returning user to sign in, such as by signing in with a user name / username or email address and a password. In some embodiments, the app provides an interface facilitating the user returning to recover a forgotten password.

[0139] In some embodiments, the app provides the user with one or more option(s) for a product and / or a service for in-app purchases, including for example, discounts on products and / or services as well as incentive to use and / or purchase the products and / or services. In some embodiments, the app displays the product and / or service for purchase, such as a description of the selected product and / or service, the price of the selected product and / or service, and the total cost associated with the same. In some embodiments, the app provides the user with options for payment. In some embodiments, the app provides the user with tracking data on the shipped product(s).

[0140] In some embodiments, the app provides an interface for the user to input data. In some embodiments, the app provides an interface for the user to input previous customer use data. In some embodiments, the app provides an interface for the user to input information about areas, for example, a local area’s insect activities. In some embodiments, the app provides an interface for the user to input data from historic records.

[0141] In some embodiments, the app comprises a mapping unit. In some embodiments, the mapping unit comprises a system to process data. In some embodiments, the mapping unit comprises ArcGIS. In some embodiments, the mapping unit comprises a non-ArcGIS system. In some embodiments, the mapping unit comprises one or more Microsoft power apps. In some embodiments, the mapping unit comprises an analytical model such as a predictive model. In some embodiments, the mapping unit provides spatial analysis of historical data in addition to prediction. In some embodiments, the predictive model is based one or more factor(s). In some embodiments, the one or more factor(s) comprises weather and / or climate data. In some embodiments, the one or more factor(s) comprises ongoing release data from the targeted area(s). In some embodiments, the one or more factor(s) comprises crop type data, crop growth stage data, weather data, or other.

[0142] In some embodiments, the mapping unit comprises modelling of distribution for areas without the device. In some embodiments, the mapping unit comprises modelling of distribution based on device and weather data from similar areas. In some embodiments, the mapping unit ensures resolution of spatial granularity of data to create adjacent or overlapping polygons, enabling creation of real-time distribution mapping.

[0143] In some embodiments, the mapping unit displays a graphical image of device location(s) and device status within an area selected by the user. In some embodiments, the device status comprises an indicator, such as a color and / or an icon, of whether the device has been deployed, when the cartridge of the device should be changed, and / or when whether the device should bedisposed of. In some embodiments, the mapping unit displays a graphical image of device locations and / or free spots within an area selected by the user. In some embodiments, more than one area can be selected using the mapping unit. In some embodiments, the mapping unit provides the user with recommendations. In some embodiments, the mapping unit provides the user with recommendations on dosage for one or more area(s) selected by the user. In some embodiments, the mapping unit provides the user with recommendations on placement of devices for one or more area(s) selected by the user.

[0144] In some embodiments, the app provides the user with multilingual outputs. In some embodiments, the app provides the user with outputs in Spanish, Tagalog, Portuguese, French, English, and / or other languages. In some embodiments, the app provides a graphic user interface (GUI) for the user to monitor purchased products, device location, pending orders, and to use a QR code scan function. In some embodiments, scanning the QR code provides the user with product- or purchase-related information, such as shipping status, location tracking, and / or product status and expiration.

[0145] In some embodiments, the app provides the user with instructions for use of the device. In some embodiments, the app provides step-by-step instructions or tutorials. In some embodiments, the app provides tutorials for installing the device, such as installing and / or recharging the device as a standalone unit or attached to a surface. In some embodiments, the tutorials comprise information on installing mounting brackets, attaching the device, securing the device, closing the lid of the device, and opening the lid of the device. In some embodiments, the app provides instructions for insect management, such as insect management after installing the device. In some embodiments, the app provides the user with user tutorials or answers to common questions, such as a help section. In some embodiments, the tutorial(s) is / are optional.

[0146] In some embodiments, the app provides the user with information on the location of one or more device(s) in an area. In some embodiments, the app provides the user with information on the performance of the device(s) in the area. In some embodiments, the app provides the user with information on the location of one or more device(s) and the performance of the device(s) in the area, for example, the effect on the native insect population. In some embodiments, the app may comprise a web app that provides a mechanism to select service companies for deployment and / or a dashboard to allocate tasks and track product deployment, and / or a mobile app for individual deployers to view tasks allocated and instructions for deployment.

[0147] In some embodiments, the app provides the user with information about local area’sinsect control activities. In some embodiments, the app provides the user with treatment rates and / or treatment failures in a particular area or location. In some embodiments, the app provides a value, such as a percentage, for the number of device(s) deployed and / or a value describing the area covered, such as a protected area, by the device(s).

[0148] In some embodiments, the app provides the user with one or more alert(s) or notification(s), such as an update or a prompt. In some embodiments, the app provides the user one or more alert(s) or notification(s), such as an actionable notification. In some embodiments, the one or more alert(s) or notification(s) is based on the user’s activity, for example, purchasing activity.

[0149] In some embodiments, the one or more alert(s) or notification(s) inform the user on events based on aspects of insect life cycle. Non-limiting examples of such events include time from device activation to insect maturity and release.

[0150] In some embodiments, the one or more alert(s) or notification(s) inform the user of timesensitive actions. Non-limiting examples of time-sensitive actions include installation tasks, device expiry date (e.g., container or cartridge expiry date) and / or when to change the internal cartridge, timing on replacement orders, such as when to re-order or re-stock consumables.

[0151] In some embodiments, the app provides the user with an interface to manage actionable notifications, for example, a task list and one or more options for assigning a task. In some embodiments, the app provides the user with one or more alert(s) or notification(s) related to a task, such as when a task should be performed and to whom a task is assigned. In some embodiments, the app provides the user with one or more recommendation(s). In some embodiments, the one or more recommendation(s) relates to dosage, such as a dosage recommendation based on an area selected by the user. In some embodiments, the app provides visualizations and / or dashboards to report on progress and / or trends pertaining to the insect control program and / or the device itself.

[0152] While some examples of methods and systems herein are described in terms of software executing on various machines, the methods and systems may also be implemented as specifically-configured hardware, such as field-programmable gate array (FPGA) specifically to execute the various methods according to this disclosure. For example, examples can be implemented in digital electronic circuitry, or in computer hardware, firmware, software, or in a combination thereof. In one example, a device may include a processor or processors. The processor comprises a computer-readable medium, such as a random access memory (RAM) coupled to the processor. The processor executes computer-executable program instructionsstored in memory, such as executing one or more computer programs. Such processors may comprise a microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application- specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), and state machines. Such processors may further comprise programmable electronic devices such as PLCs, programmable interrupt controllers (PICs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), programmable read-only memories (PROMs), electronically programmable read-only memories (EPROMs or EEPROMs), or other similar devices.

[0153] Referring to FIG. 10, device 1000 can be a host computer connected to a network. Device 1000 can be a client computer or a server. The device can be any suitable type of microprocessor-based device, such as a dedicated computing device, a personal computer, work station, server, handheld computing device (portable electronic device) such as a phone or tablet, an edge- Al device, or a neural network device. The device can include, for example, one or more of processors 1002, input device 1006, output device 1008, storage 1010, and communication device 1004. Input device 1006 and output device 1008 can generally correspond to those described above and can either be connectable or integrated with the computer. Input device 1006 can be any suitable device that provides input, such as a camera sensor, touchscreen, keyboard or keypad, mouse, or voice-recognition device. Output device 1008 can be any suitable device that provides output, such as an illuminator, a touchscreen, haptics device, or speaker. Storage 1010 can be any suitable device that provides storage, such as an electrical, magnetic, or optical memory including a RAM, cache, hard drive, or removable storage disk. Communication device 1004 can include any suitable device capable of transmitting and receiving signals over a network, such as a network interface chip or device. The components of the computer can be connected in any suitable manner, such as via a physical bus, or wirelessly.

[0154] Software 1012, which can be stored in storage 1010 and executed by processor 1002, can include, for example, the programming that embodies the functionality of the present disclosure (e.g., as embodied in the devices described above). Software 1012can also be stored and / or transported within any non-transitory, computer-readable storage medium for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, device, or device, such as those described above, that can fetch instructions associated with the software from the instruction execution system, device, or device and execute the instructions. In the context of this disclosure, a computer-readable storage medium can be any medium, such as storage 1010, that can contain or store programming for use by or in connection with an instruction-execution system, device,or device. Software 1012 can also be propagated within any transport medium for use by or in connection with an instruction-execution system, device, or device, such as those described above, that can fetch instructions associated with the software from the instruction-execution system, device, or device and execute the instructions. In the context of this disclosure, a transport medium can be any medium that can communicate, propagate, or transport programming for use by or in connection with an instruction-execution system, device, or device. The transport readable medium can include, but is not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, or infrared wired or wireless propagation medium.

[0155] Device 1000 may be connected to a network, which can be any suitable type of interconnected communication system. The network can implement any suitable communications protocol and can be secured by any suitable security protocol. The network can comprise network links of any suitable arrangement that can implement the transmission and reception of network signals, such as wireless network connections, T1 or T3 lines, cable networks, DSL, or telephone lines. Device 1000 can implement any operating system suitable for operating on the network. Software 1012 can be written in any suitable programming language. In various embodiments, application software embodying the functionality of the present disclosure can be deployed in different configurations, such as in a client / server arrangement or through a Web browser as a Web-based application or Web service, for example.

[0156] In some embodiments, provided herein is a method, comprising: obtaining information of a wild population of an arthropod (e.g., an insect, an arachnid such as ticks, etc.) in a geographic region; selecting a location in the geographic region, a date, and / or a time during the day based on the obtained information; placing an apparatus comprising pupae and / or adults of bred arthropods at the selected location, time during the day, and date; and allowing adults to emerge from the eggs and / or exit the apparatus, wherein the adults mate with the wild population. In some embodiments, the arthropod is an insect, for instance, a lepidopteran.

[0157] In some embodiments, the method comprises obtaining information of the wild population of the arthropod by an automated method and / or a manual method, such as using a smart counting device and / or one or more traps for the arthropod. In some embodiments, the method comprises obtaining information of the wild population of the arthropod using forecasting. In some embodiments, the forecasting can comprise overall data analysis, such as regression and / or classification of historical data and / or data obtained at the time of the forecasting.

[0158] In some embodiments, the method comprises selecting a location in the geographic region based on the obtained information in order to place the apparatus at the location. In some embodiments, the method comprises selecting a date / time based on the obtained information in order to place the apparatus on the date / time. In some embodiments, the method comprises selecting a location in the geographic region and a time and date based on the obtained information in order to place the apparatus at the location and on the date and time. In some embodiments, the method uses weather / climate data to forecast and select when and where to place one or more of the apparatuses in the geographic region.

[0159] In some embodiments, the method comprises using information regarding the arthropod; information regarding weather and climate in the geographic region; terrain information in the geographic region; and / or information regarding human population and / or activity in the geographic region, in order to obtain information and make forecast to help select when and where to place one or more of the apparatuses in the geographic region for the purpose of controlling wild populations of an arthropod species in the geographic region.

[0160] In some embodiments, the method comprises using information regarding in-apparatus conditions, such as light, humidity, water, and airspace temperature, as well as information regarding the outside of the apparatus, such as installation photos, drone monitoring footage, etc. Such information can be used for selecting the apparatus or component(s) thereof (e.g., receptacles containing various numbers of pupae), monitoring the use of the apparatus, and / or selecting when and where to place one or more additional apparatuses in the geographic region.

[0161] In some embodiments, the method comprises using information regarding the size of the wild population, the density of the wild population, and / or the distribution of the wild population in the geographic region, and / or the population size, density, and / or distribution of one or more predators of the arthropod in the geographic region. In some embodiments, the method comprises using information regarding the one or more predators to estimate predation impact on the pupae and / or adults of the bred arthropod. In some embodiments, the information comprises historical information and / or information obtained at the time of the forecasting. In some embodiments, the information can be used to forecast and help select when and where to place one or more of the apparatuses in the geographic region for the purpose of controlling wild populations of an arthropod species in the geographic region.

[0162] In some embodiments, the method comprises using information regarding season, temperature, rainfall, humidity, and / or wind conditions in the geographic region. In some embodiments, the information comprises historical information, a reference or an estimate,and / or information obtained at the time of the forecasting. In some embodiments, the information comprises annual or monthly mean temperatures and precipitations in the geographic region. In some embodiments, the information can be used to forecast and help select when and where to place one or more of the apparatuses in the geographic region for the purpose of controlling wild populations of an arthropod species in the geographic region.

[0163] In some embodiments, the method comprises forecasting performed using one or more devices. In some embodiments, obtaining the information and / or the forecasting is performed automatically, semi-automatically, or manually, for instance, using one or more apps disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the forecasting comprises using information obtained from one or more sources. In some embodiments, the one or more sources comprise a local source in one or more devices configured to perform the forecasting and / or one or more internet servers, such as internet servers hosting government datasets regarding historical spraying, crop types and growth stages of said crops. In some embodiments, the forecasting is for about a week, about two weeks, about three weeks, about four weeks, or longer from the time of forecasting. In some embodiments, the forecasting can be for 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, or more days.

[0164] In some embodiments, the geographic region is selected using one or more devices, and the geographic region can be regular or irregular in shape. In some embodiments, using an app disclosed herein, a user can select and / or define the geographic region. In some embodiments, the geographic region is selected using the same device(s) for performing the forecast. In some embodiments, the geographic region is selected using device(s) different from device(s) for performing the forecast. In some embodiments, the selected geographic region is provided to device(s) for performing the forecast based on the selected geographic region. In some embodiments, the process or device for selecting the geographic region can exchange information with the process or device for performing the forecast, such that the forecast can be adjusted based on adjustments in the selection of geographic region, and / or the selection of geographic region can be adjusted based on adjustments in the forecast.

[0165] In some embodiments, the location in the geographic region is selected using one or more devices. In some embodiments, the location is selected using the same device(s) for performing the forecast and / or the same device(s) for selecting the geographic region. In some embodiments, the location is selected using different from device(s) for performing the forecast and / or device(s) for selecting the geographic region. In some embodiments, the forecasted information is provided to device(s) for selecting the location in the geographic region. In someembodiments, the process or device for selecting the geographic region, the process or device for performing the forecast, and / or the process or device for selecting the location in the geographic region can exchange information with one another, such that the forecast, the selection of geographic region, and / or the selection of the location with a geographic region can be adjusted based on adjustments in one another.

[0166] In some embodiments, a plurality of locations are selected in the geographic region. In some embodiments, the plurality of locations form a grid in which each location is a node. In some embodiments, the grid is a regular grid or irregular grid. In some embodiments, one or more of the apparatus is placed at each of the plurality of locations.

[0167] In some embodiments, the method comprises using ground-based data gathering to obtain population density data of the arthropod population in and / or around the geographical region. In some embodiments, the method comprises using the obtained population density data for the forecast.

[0168] In some embodiments, the method comprises delivering the apparatus comprising eggs, pupae, larvae, and / or adults of bred arthropods at or near the location. In some embodiments, the apparatus is delivered at or near the location using a ground distribution vehicle or an aerial craft. In some embodiments, the aerial craft is a piloted aircraft or a pilotless drone.

[0169] In some embodiments, the method comprises providing information of the apparatus to a user to place the apparatus. In some embodiments, the information of the apparatus comprises tracking formation. In some embodiments, the tracking formation is provided on a map on a device of the user. In some embodiments, the information of the apparatus comprises expiry information. In some embodiments, the method comprises providing information of one or more apparatuses that have been placed in the geographic region.

[0170] In some aspects, provided herein is a non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising processor-executable instructions to cause a processor to: obtain information of a wild population of an arthropod in a geographic region, optionally wherein the processorexecutable instructions cause the processor to forecast the information; provide instruction or recommendation to a user for placing an apparatus comprising pupae and / or adults of bred arthropods at one or more locations in the geographic region at one or more times during the day and / or one or more dates based on the forecasted information, wherein adults of the bred arthropod eclose from the pupae and / or exit the apparatus to mate with the wild population.

[0171] In some embodiments, the method and / or the non-transitory computer-readable medium disclosed herein uses an app disclosed herein to inform a user when and where to place one ormore of the apparatus disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the method and / or the non- transitory computer-readable medium disclosed herein uses an app disclosed herein for commercial sales and / or restocking of the apparatus disclosed herein.

[0172] In some embodiments, the method and / or the non-transitory computer-readable medium disclosed herein is for use in controlling the wild population of the arthropod in the geographic region. In some embodiments, the adults that exit the apparatus are males. In some embodiments, the adults that exit the apparatus are genetically engineered male insects that mate with wild female insects of the same species in the geographic region. In some embodiments, the arthropod is a lepidopteran.

[0173] The computer systems including apps disclosed herein can be used to perform one or more steps of the methods disclosed herein. For instance, any one or more of the steps of: obtaining information of a wild population of an arthropod in a geographic region; forecasting information of the wild population; selecting the geographic region; selecting one or more locations in the geographic region; selecting one or more times during the day; selecting one or more days; and selecting one or more devices (e.g., receptacles comprising various numbers of pupae) to be placed at the one or more locations, times during the day, and / or dates can be performed using a computer device or system disclosed therein. For example, any one or more or all of the aforementioned exemplary steps can be using an app disclosed herein.IV. Terminology

[0174] Unless defined otherwise, all terms of art, notations and other technical and scientific terms or terminology used herein are intended to have the same meaning as is commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the claimed subject matter pertains. In some cases, terms with commonly understood meanings are defined herein for clarity and / or for ready reference, and the inclusion of such definitions herein should not necessarily be construed to represent a substantial difference over what is generally understood in the art.

[0175] Whenever the term “at least,” “greater than,” or “greater than or equal to” precedes the first numerical value in a series of two or more numerical values, the term “at least,” “greater than” or “greater than or equal to” applies to each of the numerical values in that series of numerical values. For example, greater than or equal to 1, 2, or 3 is equivalent to greater than or equal to 1, greater than or equal to 2, or greater than or equal to 3.

[0176] Whenever the term “no more than,” “less than,” or “less than or equal to” or “fewer than” or “fewer or equal to” or the like precedes the first numerical value in a series of two ormore numerical values, the term “no more than,” “less than,” or “less than or equal to” or “fewer than” or “fewer or equal to” applies to each of the numerical values in that series of numerical values. For example, less than or equal to 3, 2, or 1 is equivalent to less than or equal to 3, less than or equal to 2, or less than or equal to 1.

[0177] The term “about” as used herein refers to the usual error range for the respective value readily known to the skilled person in this technical field. Reference to “about” a value or parameter herein comprises (and describes) embodiments that are directed to that value or parameter per se.

[0178] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” comprise plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, “a” or “an” means “at least one” or “one or more.”

[0179] Throughout this disclosure, various aspects of the claimed subject matter are presented in a range format. It should be understood that the description in range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the claimed subject matter. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible sub-ranges as well as individual numerical values within that range. For example, where a range of values is provided, it is understood that each intervening value, between the upper and lower limit of that range and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range is encompassed within the claimed subject matter. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may independently be comprised in the smaller ranges, and are also encompassed within the claimed subject matter, subject to any specifically excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated range comprises one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those comprised limits are also comprised in the claimed subject matter. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range.

[0180] Use of ordinal terms such as “first”, “second”, “third”, etc., in the claims to modify a claim element does not by itself connote any priority, precedence, or order of one claim element over another or the temporal order in which acts of a method are performed, but are used merely as labels to distinguish one claim element having a certain name from another element having a same name (but for use of the ordinal term) to distinguish the claim elements. Similarly, use of a), b), etc., or i), ii), etc. does not by itself connote any priority, precedence, or order of steps in the claims. Similarly, the use of these terms in the specification does not by itself connote any required priority, precedence, or order.EXAMPLES

[0181] The following examples are included for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.Example 1: Device design for field-testing

[0182] In order to test the effectiveness of various different potential device designs under real- world conditions, devices of various different designs were produced for testing in agricultural fields. This Example describes representative features of one successful design, referred to herein as “Design A”.Design A

[0183] Devices of Design A are exemplified by FIGS. 11A-11L and were made of white corrugated plastic material (e.g., Correx® brand) with a roof housing 3 modular cassettes. The devices are about 300 mm wide, about 480 mm long, and about 500 mm tall to the top of the roof. White plastic was chosen to reduce potential temperature increases from solar gain, through reflective materials or similar are also envisioned and are expected to perform similarly to the white plastic tested herein. Similarly, other colors could be used as well. The white corrugated plastic was 4 mm wide and single-fluted (one layer).

[0184] The roof component was constructed with a roof pitch and type to prevent or reduce water collection (e.g., as in features 1101-1102 in FIG. 11A) and to have a roof volume that allowed air movement via roof louvres (e.g., feature 1103 in FIG. 11A). The cassettes (also described as “modules” or “containers”) were made of heavy-duty, multi-layer materials such as cardboard or corrugated plastic, and were arranged to have an airspace separating each cassette from its corrugated plastic mounting (e.g., feature 1104 in FIG. 11A, pointing to a vertical gap between “floors” inside the structure). As shown in, e.g., feature 1105 of FIG. 11A (pointing to a hole in the outer structure), ventilation features (also referred to as “cooling features” or “air vents”) were included to enable air movement and total separation of the cassettes. The dimensions of these ventilation features determined the overall device dimensions.

[0185] One benefit of devices of Design A is that they are easy to assemble using corrugated plastic and nylon fasteners (e.g., feature 1106 in FIG. 11A). Another benefit is that the structure (e.g., color, thickness) of the corrugated plastic provides beneficial thermal properties within the device while also being structurally sound in a variety of conditions (e.g., rain).

[0186] As shown in FIG. 11C, devices of Design A were arranged in a house-like manner, with a door that opened outward (shown open in FIG. 11C) and up to three modular cassettesinserted inside via the door and layered like a house a with floors. Each cassette could house thousands of insects (e.g., 4,500-5,500 insects). Airspace can be seen above and below each of the three cassettes in FIG. 11C (the airspaces are indicated by feature 1104 in FIG. 11C and the cassettes are indicated by feature 1110 in FIG. 11C). Air vents (shown as feature 1107, long horizontal openings in door and side walls, in FIG. 11C) were designed to allow airflow to help regulate the internal temperature, and escape holes (feature 1109, small circular openings in FIG. 11C) were designed to allow the insects to exit the device. While the escape holes were designed to allow some degree of air ventilation in addition to the air vents, the escape holes were not designed to sufficiently regulate the environmental conditions without the air vents. The devices were designed to either be raised off the ground or placed on the ground. Design A also includes insertable floors, as described in more detail below.Roof and. outer structure

[0187] The roof in Design A is an important new design feature. The roof was designed to have two upward-facing planes, angled at 148 to each other (feature 1103 in FIG. 11C). This angle was chosen to make the pre-assembled structure as flat as possible (see FIG. 11D) for ease of packing, but still giving enough volume for the attic to be effective and to shield from sunshine. The Design A structure in FIG. 11C had a height of 50mm from tip of the rooftop to the attic floor . Feature 1107 in FIG. 11B, FIG. 11D, and FIG. HE shows angled air vents, which were designed for increased air vent area (increased flow) whilst retaining a triangular side-of-roof shape and avoid cutting in similar direction as corrugated plastic flutes in order to preserve the structural integrity of the flutes (e.g., cuts at a 45 degree angle relative to the orientation of the flutes provided greater structural stability compared to cutting in the same direction as the flutes). Feature 1108 in FIG. 11B shows an 80mm-high space between attic and top layer cassette, which was designed to increase air flow and reduce radiating heat from the attic to top cassette.

[0188] A single piece of corrugated cardboard (e.g., FIG. HD) was designed to be able to be assembled into the outside walls and roof of the structure using nylon fasteners (FIG. HF). A door was designed to be fixed in position using nylon fasteners along one side (e.g., at roughly the four locations indicated by feature 1106 in each of FIG. 11B and FIG. HD) onto a fold from the wall opposite the door hinge side (e.g., feature 1111 in each of FIG. HD and FIG. 11G). The design thus was designed to accommodate loading the cassettes into the interior through the open front (e.g., FIG. 11C) before the door is closed. The exact design of the doormay be varied, but its presence on a side of the device greatly improved efficiency of assembly of the device and efficiency of replacement of cassettes in the field by allowing the cassettes to be added from the side (as opposed to, e.g., from the top, which was not practical in the field) and preventing the cassettes from falling out. Thus, the presence of the door represented an important improvement to decrease labor of assembly and upkeep.

[0189] Air vents (e.g., the long ovular holes in FIG. 11A, roughly 170 mm long by 40 mm wide), which are a key feature of Design A, were designed to be as large as possible to allow air flow while retaining structural integrity. Air vents were designed to allow air to enter from any direction to cool the cassettes, with cooler air flowing over the top of each cassette to dissipate heat that rises from the cassettes. Many air holes were added to all four sides and above each cassette to provide a high level of airflow through the device and above and below each cassette, in order to keep the cassettes cool. If the holes were too large, the structural integrity of the device would be damaged; too small, and there would be insufficient airflow.

[0190] Escape holes (e.g., roughly 13 mm in diameter for the interior holes, and roughly 30 mm in diameter for the outer holes) which are another key feature of Design A, were designed to be large enough to let out insects (e.g., fall armyworm, which is also called FAW) while preventing predators from entering. The escape holes were designed align between the outer structure and the cassettes but to be larger on the outer structure (e.g., the circular holes in FIG. 11D) than the corresponding holes in the cassettes in order to provide “wiggle room” and still accommodate exit of the insects if one or more of the cassettes shifts in relation to the outer structure.Internal structure

[0191] Internal “floors” were also designed. A single floor piece is shown in FIG. 11H. These were made of flat corrugated plastic in a rectangular shape matching the footprint of the outer structure designed above, with tabs along the sides (e.g., 3 tabs on each of the long sides as shown by feature 1112 in FIG. 11H). The tabs were designed to be inserted through corresponding slots in the side walls of the outer structure to secure each floor in place inside the structure. For example, each tab shown by feature 1112 in FIG. 11H could be threaded through a double- slot shaped like feature 1113 in FIG. 11D and FIG. Ill, going through a larger slot first (e.g., via the wider, thinner slot shown at the top of feature 1113 in FIG. 11D and FIG. Ill, resulting in the arrangement shown in FIG. 11 J) and then being folded and slotted back into the interior of the structure via the second slot (e.g., via the smaller, wider second slot shown in feature 1113 in FIG. 11D and FIG. Ill, resulting in the arrangement shown in feature 1114 ofFIG. 111).Device on a stand

[0192] Device A was designed to be able to be fixed in place in order to prevent the device from being blown over by wind. For example, fixing devices to a stand that is fixed to the ground was found to be able to prevent the devices from being blown off in wind in field conditions. Alternatively, a device described herein could be placed onto the ground (or in a gabion) if it is tethered in place to prevent it from being blown over in the wind.

[0193] The structure used to raise the devices off the ground was designed to be simple and efficient, built preferably with readily available, cost-effective materials, easily available to the farmer. Thus, for the field tests, a simple wooden board was used, attached to a pole by metal brackets. The base of the board was 1.0 m above the ground, which was enough to protect the device from all ground predators. Plastic cable ties were used to attach the device to the poles. This solution was found to be practical and highly efficient in the tested field conditions, and no devices fell from the support. The cassettes were easily replaced on the device through the front door every two weeks without needing to move the device off of the structure. A single pole having two boards and four brackets was able to hold two filled devices at the same time. Thus, each pole could hold up to 30,000 pupae.Example 2: Field experiments

[0194] This Example describes field experiments on various designs of fall army worm (FAW) release devices leading to the development of Design A described in Example 1.Methods

[0195] Unless provided otherwise, the methods described in this example apply to all the field testing experiments described throughout the instant Examples. Field deployed numbers were 4,500 - 5,500 insects per cassette. Thus, tested devices that contained three cassettes per device contained a total of 13,500 - 16,500 per device. Male insects of fall armyworm (FAW) type OX5382G were loaded into the cassettes as pupae roughly 18 days after hatching, and the cassettes arranged into devices in various configurations as described below. The devices were placed in active com fields in South America during Safra (roughly October to December) and Safrina (roughly February to April) seasons in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024 and were set up in holes such that the top of the devices were roughly at ground level, were set up sitting directly on the ground, or were raised as described below. The insect- filled devices were left in the fieldfor 5-14 days, and then the number of remaining insects inside (regardless of stage of life) were counted and compared to the starting number in order to calculate the percent of adult escape.Original design: Square cardboard box

[0196] The first tested models were square cardboard boxes (FIGS. 12A-12C), referred to as “Safrinha 22”. As field releases started with this device, many problems were observed, mainly: low resistance to rain (causing full collapse or problems with alignment of holes) and low adult escape. Additionally, the devices on the ground were highly susceptible to predation. Antipredator structures were attempted (e.g., thorn fences, as shown in FIG. 12B), but the most effective solution was raising the device (FIG. 12C).

[0197] The square cardboard device at full capacity held up to 6,500 pupae, distributed across 8 compartments having 3 cm-high pupae layers (see inset in FIG. 12A, which shows one of the two layers that were present inside the box, with each of the two layers having four compartments). However, this device consistently performed poorly in field conditions when at full capacity. Thus, the devices were deployed on field only with 2 or 3 compartments with pupae. But even with fewer pupae, only about 75% of adults were found to consistently escape from this device, short of the 90% target. Thus, further studies on the cardboard box device design were discontinued.Alternative design: “Pizza ” device

[0198] Further testing revealed that a thinner pupae layer inside the device (e.g., 1 cm as opposed to the original 3 cm) is beneficial to prevent overheating and results in more efficient adult escape compared to the original device (FIG. 13A). Tests were conducted with an actual pizza box (FIG. 13B), adapted with compartments to hold pupae and release adults on field (FIGS. 13C-13D).

[0199] With this, the concept of a flat device (aka “pizza device”, 35 x 35 x 8 cm), made of cardboard with a capacity of 5,000 pupae distributed in 6 compartments (FIG. 13D) was developed and showed to be promising. The compartments have a larger surface than the cardboard box device, which allowed the pupae layer to remain low (1 cm depth).Additional tested design variations

[0200] Following the pizza device, several other concepts were considered and tested in Mato Grosso before the beginning of the next field trial, aiming to increase pupae capacity per device and reducing internal temperatures. The modifications that were considered included: (1) alarger pizza device with 2x pupae capacity (e.g., FIG. 14A, bottom); (2) stacked pizza devices without separation between the layers (e.g., FIG. 14B); (3) stacked pizza devices with separation between the layers, including various different arrangements and manners of separating the devices (e.g., FIG. 14C, FIG. 14D, FIG. 14E); (4) a ‘ ‘tower” shaped device (e.g., FIG. 14F, FIG. 141); (5) covering the devices with foil paper (e.g., FIG. 14A, right; FIG. 14F, FIG. 14G, FIG. 141); and (6) a single pizza device with a roof (e.g., FIG. 14H).

[0201] Unfortunately, none of these modifications efficiently reduced internal device temperatures and none resulted in improved escape rates. Thus, for the next round of field trials, which were expected to experience milder temperatures, the original pizza device (35 x 35 cm) was selected as the main device, while other insulation options remained under investigation.Example 3: Design and testing of an underground device

[0202] This Example describes the development of a device with improved insultation. Better insulation was necessary to improve escape rates. However, effectively reducing internal device temperatures was still a challenge to be overcome, as a negative correlation between adult escape and longer periods on high temperatures was clear (FIG. 15), with higher percentage escape values at lower temperatures.

[0203] After the structural modifications described in Example 2 were unsuccessful at improving the insulation of the device, a buried device concept (e.g., FIG. 16) was considered to mitigate this problem. Variations of this concept were tested in at least two different trials. Although the underground devices were less susceptible to temperature oscillations than the pizza device was, the underground devices presented other major problems, such as a high complexity in the deployment process, low pupae capacity, and frequent spoilage due to its high susceptibility to predators and flooding. Therefore, the underground concept was not taken further.Example 4: Experiments in shading

[0204] When the underground concept was found to be ineffective, a different approach was attempted to reduce internal device temperatures: an external structure, separated from the device, that can block the sun and provide shade the device, besides offering protection from the rain. This Example describes the results of experiments testing various configurations for providing shade.

[0205] The shading modification (as shown in, e.g., FIG. 17A) proved to be highly effective, as the shading structure received the direct sunlight incidence and did not transfer the heat to thedevice, in which the pupae were kept. Maximum temperature peaks on the hottest hours of the day were significantly reduced compared to unshaded control devices (FIG. 17B).

[0206] With this discovery, different materials and shapes of shading structures (e.g., FIGS. 17C-17J) were developed and tested for effects based on, e.g., different colors of cardboard (brown vs. white), whether the devices were raised off the ground, sitting directly on the ground, sitting on a ground- level hard surface (e.g., a piece of wood), materials used for the shading structure, and the presence or absence of a pitched roof above the cassettes. The results were quite similar between them (FIG. 17K), and white cardboard was selected due to its affordability and ease of manufacturing.

[0207] A large structure that embraces the device (aka “the house”) was developed and used during the “Safrinha 23” trial and was proven to significantly reduce the high temperature peaks inside the device (FIG. 17K). A smaller structure was also tested (e.g., FIG. 17J), in which the pizza device was modified from a 35 x 35 cm square shape to a 30 x 40 cm rectangular shape in order to facilitate the handling and fit better between maize lines when located in the field.Example 5: Experiments with raising devices off the ground

[0208] Predators are the most detrimental threat to successful device deployment, as they can destroy one whole device in a single attack (evidenced by an extensive predation analysis package; data not shown). This Example describes experiments that tested raising devices off of the ground as an alternative means of keeping the devices out of reach of ground predators.

[0209] Raising the structure turned out to be an important complement of the device. It offered protection and support for the device, was easily built, and the same raising structure could be maintained on the field for subsequent deployments. Two deployment types were tested in “Safrinha 23”: raised 1 meter off the ground vs. sitting directly on the ground. Unprotected devices on the ground were frequently destroyed by predators. Eventually, metal cages had to be used to protect the devices. For example, single devices as shown in, e.g., FIG. 17H were placed in metal gabions directly on the ground (e.g., as depicted in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4B), with or without a solid roof. Good adult escape results were then observed for both on-ground and raised devices (above 90%; FIG. 17L). However, metal protective devices were operationally challenging. Thus, deployment of raised devices was selected for continued development.Example 6: Development of the 3-layer device concept

[0210] The devices were loaded with insect pupae, which were allowed to eclose (i.e., emerge from the pupal stage as adults) within the devices, with the goal of releasing adult moths fromthe devices. Aiming to increase the number of adult moths released from a single release point and thinking more on a commercial aspect of the product, a concept of a larger device that could support up to three “pizza” devices (also referred to as “cassettes” or “containers”) was developed. This Example describes design and field testing of three alternative device designs, Device 1, Device 2, and Device 3 (FIG. 18A, top, middle, and bottom, respectively), which were used to develop the device described in Example 1.

[0211] Goals of the device development were to create a device that would be able to hold up to 15,000 pupae, withstand the weather conditions of active crop fields (e.g., in maize fields in Brazil), and be easily deployed, while still securing the cassettes during the deployment period and providing them protection from the sun.

[0212] With the concept defined, prototypes were built and pre-tested at Chrysalis, a manufacturing facility, before moving to a field environment. The pre-testing was conducted outside, but not in an agricultural field, and loaded with dataloggers instead of pupae. The dataloggers recorded internal temperatures. Bags of sand were added inside the cassettes to simulate the weight of pupa layers. Various adaptations were tested to increase performance. These included adding more side opening holes (added in all four sides and above each cassette to allow better airflow between cassettes to reduce their temperature; see, e.g., feature 1105 in FIG. 11A) and adding an opening in the “roof’ (FIG. 18A, bottom) to provide extra air flow to the cassette the on top that showed higher temperature peaks than the first two (FIG. 18B). Another problem that was overcome was misalignment between the cassette and the device when exposed to the rain: the cardboard cassette crumbled after getting moist unless there was a base support for it. This problem was fixed by implementing the internal floors described above.

[0213] Device 1 (FIG. 18A, top) featured 5 cm apertures for larger spacing between devices to provide good airflow. In contrast, Device 2 (FIG. 18A, middle) featured 2.5 cm apertures.Device 3 (FIG. 18A, bottom) featured 5 cm apertures and an open roof. Additional features that were tested included: having a door on the front of the device that opens instead on the top, for easier cassette insertion / replacement without risk of collapse; and addition of supports for the cassettes inside of the devices.

[0214] The first tested version of supports for the cassettes inside of the devices had folded edges plus a grid below the cassette to keep them aligned. However, cassettes started to fold down due the weight when they were wet from the rain resulting in poor alignment with the escape holes, so a full base was adapted to support the cassettes inside the devices.Temperature measurements infield conditions

[0215] The temperature inside each cassette (top, middle, and bottom) in cardboard versions of each of Devices 1, 2, and 3 was measured continuously over the course of 2 full days. The results are provided in FIG. 18B, and the average and maximum value from each cassette in each device is provided in Table 1. As shown in Table 1, all devices and all cassettes within each device kept the maximum temperature below the ambient temperature. There was a trend of temperature increase on cassettes inside devices according to their position on the device (T°C bottom < middle < top). Of the three device models tested in Table 1, the one with aperture on its roof (Device 3) resulted on lower max temperature on cassette in the top (by approximately 1.5°C). The width of the air aperture (2.5 cm in Device 2 vs 5 cm in Device 1) did not significantly impact the recorded temperatures. In Table 1, the "Sao Judas"-style cassette represents the structure shown in, e.g., FIG. 17J, but with the shade cover being made of white or a brown-colored cardboard, as indicated.Table 1: Temperature measurements in each cassette position (top, middle, bottom) in cardboard versions of each of Device types 1, 2, and 3Performance of different materials infield conditions

[0216] After several tests to develop this new device with different cardboard types and structural variations, it became clear that cardboard would not withstand field conditions.Therefore, a change for a more resistant material was necessary. A corrugated plastic (e.g.,Correx® brand) version of Device 1 was built, and the internal temperature in each of its cassettes was measured continuously for a week in comparison to the cardboard version and to a single cassette with a cardboard cover (FIG. 17J), with each device tested at ground level on a pallet. The average and maximum temperature recorded in each cassette is provided in Table 2. The first two days (in the dashed boxed in FIG. 18C) overlapped with a heat wave in which ambient temperatures were high (> 43°C). As shown in FIG. 18C and Table 2, all devices recorded lower temperatures than ambient, and single cassettes were slightly hotter than cassettes inside devices (whether made from corrugated plastic or resin cardboard).

[0217] The corrugated plastic version of the device was first tested with a hand-crafted prototype. It was observed that it was strong, resistant to weather conditions and prevented internal overheating similarly to the cardboard, and better than one single device covered (Table 2). The prototype was then tested in Mato Grosso, where similar results were observed. The positive results made this device to be chosen for a full field season of testing.Table 2: Temperature measurements in each cassette position (top, middle, bottom) in cardboard vs corrugated plastic versions of Device type 1engineered and manufactured in UK. An early version prototype was sent to Brazil and further adapted to add the functional door and internal floors. The resulting device design, which is described as Device A in Example 1 and is shown in, e.g., FIG. 11A, was tested for six weeks in the “Safra 23” trial in Mato Grosso raised about 1 m off the ground on a platform on stilts, and proved to be successful.

[0219] During testing, the devices were fixed to the raised structure as described above and remained on the field throughout the six-week trial. The cassettes within the devices were replaced once every 2 weeks by opening the front door, removing the old cassettes, and insertingfresh cassettes. The eclosion rate was measured by counting the number of pupae that eclosed into an adult (i.e., leaving an empty case behind) and those that failed to eclose (died), and calculating the fraction of the initial number of pupae in each device that were no longer present (i.e., empty cases) when the cassettes were collected.

[0220] No devices collapsed, fell or were damaged, and an average adult escape rate of 95% was achieved at the end of the trial, well exceeding the target of 80% (FIG. 18D). Further, the measured eclosion rate was 96%, well over the target 85%.

[0221] Further devices were manufactured with colorful branding on the exterior and tested in a field with two devices per pole, raised off the ground as described above. The new device was built with the floor supports for each cassette level inside the device, as described above regarding FIG. 11H and FIG. 11L. The floor supports were about 445x422mm with 6 flaps or folds, three of which went into the outer structure and were made of the same material. The three flaps / folds that were inserted into the outer structure were installed before inserting the cassettes. The floors were kept in place by folding the flaps / folds through the long walls of the outer structure.

[0222] The branded model was used in a commercial demonstration of six weeks with two partners farmers in the state of Sao Paulo. The average escape rates were again satisfactory: above 95% in both sites (FIG. 19A, FIG. 19B).

[0223] The present disclosure is not intended to be limited in scope to the particular disclosed embodiments, which are provided, for example, to illustrate various aspects of the disclosure. Various modifications to the compositions and methods described will become apparent from the description and teachings herein. Such variations may be practiced without departing from the true scope and spirit of the disclosure and are intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A device comprising a container, wherein the container comprises:(a) a base comprising a bottom wall and a sidewall, wherein the bottom wall and the side wall enclose a space; and(b) a spacer on the base, wherein the spacer partitions the space into a plurality of compartments each configured to hold pupae of a lepidopteran insect, wherein the sidewall comprises a plurality of openings each configured to allow exit of an adult of the lepidopteran insect from a compartment of the plurality of compartments.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the container further comprises a lid configured to engage the sidewall and / or the bottom wall such that the container has a closed configuration and an open configuration, wherein the bottom wall, the sidewall, and the lid together enclose the space when the container is in the closed configuration.

3. The device of claim 2, wherein the lid comprises a sidewall comprising a plurality of openings configured to align with the plurality of openings in the sidewall of the base when the container is in the closed configuration, thereby allowing adults of the lepidopteran insect to exit through the plurality of openings in the base and in the lid.

4. The device of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the plurality of openings in the base or in the lid are independently in the shape of a circle, semi-circle, oval, ellipse, slot, triangle, square, rectangle, parallelogram, rhombus, trapezium, kite, or polygon, or any combination thereof.

5. The device of any one of claims 1-4, wherein the plurality of openings in the base or in the lid are independently of between about 10 mm and about 30 mm in diameter, optionally wherein the plurality of openings in the base are 21 mm in diameter, or optionally wherein the plurality of lid openings in the lid are 13 mm in diameter.

6. The device of any one of claims 1-5, wherein the diameter of openings in the lid are less than the diameter of openings in the base.

7. The device of any one of claims 1-6, further comprising a cover configured to cover at least a portion of the base and / or at least a portion of the lid.

8. The device of claim 7, wherein the cover is a shading structure.

9. The device of any one of claims 1-8, further comprising a cage configured to enclose the container, allowing adults of the lepidopteran insect to exit, and prevent predators of the lepidopteran insect from accessing the device.

10. The device of claim 9, wherein the cage comprises a mesh cage or a gabion.

11. The device of any one of claims 1-10, further comprising a support configured to elevate the device above a ground level.

12. The device of any one of claims 1-11, further comprising a housing configured to house the container.

13. The device of claim 12, wherein the housing is configured to house multiple containers.

14. The device of claim 12 or claim 13, wherein the housing comprises a plurality of openings, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of openings are configured to allow adults of the lepidopteran insect to exit.

15. The device of claim 14, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of openings in the housing are configured to align with at least a portion of the plurality of openings in the sidewall of the base and / or the plurality of openings in the sidewall of the lid.

16. The device of any one of claims 1-15, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of openings in the base, in the lid, and / or in the housing are configured to provide air communication between the plurality of compartments and an outside environment.

17. The device of any one of claims 1-16, wherein the plurality of openings in the base, in the lid, and / or in the housing are configured to regulate temperature inside the container.

18. The device of any one of claims 1-17, wherein the plurality of openings in the base, in the lid, and / or in the housing are configured to prevent rain and / or predators of the lepidopteran insect from entering the plurality of compartments.

19. The device of any one of claims 1-18, wherein the container consists of one layer of the plurality of compartments.

20. The device of any one of claims 1-18, wherein the container comprises multiple layers of the plurality of compartments.

21. The device of any one of claims 1-20, wherein any one or more of the components of the device comprises a temperature insulating material, optionally wherein the base, the spacer, the lid, the cover, and / or the housing comprises a temperature insulating material, and optionally any one or more of the components of the device comprises a recyclable material.

22. The device of any one of claims 1-21, wherein any one or more of the components of the device comprises cardboard, plastic, a corrugated material (e.g., corrugated plastic), or any combination thereof.

23. The device of claim 22, wherein the base, the spacer, the lid, the cover, and / or the housing are made of cardboards, optionally wherein the cardboard(s) is / are about 3 mm in thickness and about 420 g / m2in grammage.

24. The device of claim 22 or claim 23, wherein the external surfaces of the base, the lid, the cover, and / or the housing are of a light color, optionally wherein the external surfaces are white.

25. The device of any one of claims 1-24, wherein the base and / or the lid comprises a single layer of cardboards, and / or the spacer comprises double layers of cardboards.

26. The device of any one of claims 1-25, wherein any one or more of the components of the device comprises a coating, optionally wherein the external surfaces of the base, the lid, the cover, and / or the housing are coated with a waterproof coating, a temperature insulating coating, or a combination thereof.

27. The device of any one of claims 1-26, wherein the container measures between about 50 cm and about 20 cm in length, optionally wherein the container measures about 33 cm in length.

28. The device of any one of claims 1-27, wherein the container measures between about 50 cm and about 20 cm in width, optionally wherein the container measures about 33 cm in width.

29. The device of any one of claims 1-28, wherein the container measures between about 15 cm and about 5 cm in height.

30. The device of any one of claims 1-29, wherein the container comprises a plurality of spacers.

31. The device of any one of claims 1-30, wherein the spacer(s) each comprises a plurality of openings configured to provide air communication between adjacent compartments of the plurality of compartments.

32. The device of claim 31, wherein the plurality of openings in the spacer(s) are configured to allow passage of adults of the lepidopteran insect between adjacent compartments of the plurality of compartments.

33. The device of any one of claims 1-32, wherein the device comprises between about 2 and about 10 compartments in the space.

34. The device of any one of claims 1-33, wherein the device comprises 6 compartments in the space.

35. The device of any one of claims 1-34, wherein each of the plurality of compartments in the space is in air communication with each adjacent compartment through one or more openings in the spacer between the compartments.

36. The device of any one of claims 1-35, wherein each of the plurality of compartments in the space is in air communication with an outside environment through one or more openings in the side wall.

37. The device of any one of claims 1-36, wherein the container is configured to maintain the temperature in the spacer between about 15°C and about 35°C and the humidity above about 75% when the container is in a closed configuration, optionally wherein the container is configured to maintain the temperature in the spacer between about 20°C and about 30°C and the humidity above about 80% when the container is in a closed configuration.

38. The device of any one of claims 1-37, wherein the container is configured to provide a head space above the pupae of the lepidopteran insect in the container.

39. The device of claim 38, wherein the head space is between about 1 cm and about 4 cm, optionally wherein the head space is 2 cm, between a lid of the container and the pupae of the lepidopteran insect.

40. The device of any one of claims 1-39, wherein the container is configured to hold at least 15,000 pupae of the lepidopteran insect.

41. The device of any one of claims 1-39, wherein the container is configured to hold between about 1,800 and about 12,000 pupae of the lepidopteran insect.

42. The device of any one of claims 41, wherein the container is configured to hold about 4,500-5,000 pupae of the lepidopteran insect, optionally wherein the device is configured to hold a total of about 13,500-16,500 pupae of the lepidopteran insect.

43. The device of claim 42, wherein the housing is configured to hold three of the containers configured to hold about 5,000 pupae of the lepidopteran insect.

44. The device of any one of claims 1-43, wherein each compartment is configured to hold between about 300 and about 2,000 pupae of the lepidopteran insect.

45. The device of any one of claims 1-44, wherein each compartment is configured to hold about 800 pupae of the lepidopteran insect.

46. The device of any one of claims 1-45, wherein the pupae of the lepidopteran insect form a layer of pupae with depth between about 0.5 cm and about 3 cm in each of the plurality of compartments, optionally wherein the layer is about 1 cm in pupae depth.

47. The device of any one of claims 1-46, wherein the lepidopteran insect is a species of the genus Spodoptera, Helicoverpa, Chrysodeixis, Anticarsia, Peridroma, or Heliothis.

48. The device of any one of claims 1-47, wherein the lepidopteran insect is Spodoptera frugiperda, Spodoptera exigua, Spodoptera littoraUs, Helicoverpa armigera, Peridroma saucia, Helicoverpa z.ea, Chrysodeixis includens, Anticarsia gemmatali , or Heliothis virescens.

49. The device of any one of claims 1-48, wherein the pupae of the lepidopteran insect are genetically engineered.

50. The device of any one of claims 1-49, wherein the pupae of the lepidopteran insect comprise a gene expression system capable of producing a effector having a lethal, deleterious, or sterilizing effect, optionally wherein the gene expression system is a sex-specific gene expression system, optionally wherein the gene expression system and / or effector is activated in the absence of a substance, optionally wherein the substance is a chemical ligand, optionally wherein the chemical ligand is tetracycline or an analog or derivative thereof.

51. The device of any one of claims 1-50, wherein at least about 10%, at least about 20%, at least about 30%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%, at least about 99%, or 100% of the pupae of the lepidopteran insect in the plurality of compartments in the device are males.

52. The device of any one of claims 1-51, wherein the pupae of the lepidopteran insect in the plurality of compartments in the device are between about 16-day old and about 19-day old from when eggs are placed into a rearing chamber.

53. The device of any one of claims 1-52, wherein 0%, about 1%, about 5%, about 10%, about 20%, about 30%, about 40%, about 50%, about 60%, about 70%, about 80%, about 90%, about 95%, about 99%, or 100% of the pupae of the lepidopteran insect in the plurality of compartments in the device have eclosed.

54. A method comprising storing a device of any one of claims 1-53 at about 18°C, wherein the device comprises pupae of the lepidopteran insect in the plurality of compartments.

55. A method comprising shipping a device of any one of claims 1-53 at about 5°C, about 10°C, about 15°C, or about 30°C, wherein the device comprises pupae of the lepidopteran insect in the plurality of compartments.

56. The method of claim 55, wherein a plurality of the containers are stacked in multiple layers during shipping.

57. The method of claim 56, wherein in each layer the containers are stacked in rows and columns, and there is a gap between adjacent rows and adjacent columns.

58. A method comprising placing a device of any one of claims 1-53 in a field, and allowing the pupae to eclose and adults of the lepidopteran insect to exit the device and into the field.

59. The method of claim 58, wherein the device is placed in the field for between about 4 and about 15 days.

60. The method of claim 58 or claim 59, wherein the device comprises one container.

61. The method of claim 58 or claim 59, wherein the device comprises multiple containers.

62. The method of claim 61, wherein the device comprises between about 3 and about 6 containers.

63. The method of any one of claims 58-62, comprising placing a device in the field every week for between about 4 and about 8 weeks during crop growth.

64. The method of any one of claims 58-63, wherein for each unit of the device placed in the field, the unit covers an area between about 100 and about 500 acres, optionally an area of about 400 acres.

65. The method of any one of claims 58-64, wherein the adults of the lepidopteran insect that have exited the device overflood wild males in the field at a ratio between about 0.01:1 and 1000:1, or a ratio of greater than 1000:1.

66. The method of claim 65, wherein the adults of the lepidopteran insect that have exited the device overflood wild males in the field at a ratio of 0.1:1, 1:1, 3:1, 20:1, 50:1, 100:1, 500:1, or 1000:1.

67. The method of any one of claims 58-64, wherein the adults of the lepidopteran insect that have exited the device overflood wild males in the field at a ratio of about 1:1.

68. The method of any one of claims 58-67, wherein the adults of the lepidopteran insect that have exited the device are males and mate with wild females of the same species.

69. The method of claim 68, wherein the males comprise a gene expression system capable of producing an effector having a lethal, deleterious, or sterilizing effect, optionally wherein the gene expression system is a sex-specific gene expression system, optionally wherein the gene expression system and / or effector is activated in the absence of a substance, optionally wherein the substance is a chemical ligand, optionally wherein the chemical ligand is tetracycline or an analog or derivative thereof.

70. The method of claim 69, wherein mating of the males with the wild females results in at least some offspring that inherit the gene expression system, thereby suppressing a population of wild insects of said same species in the field and / or causing resistance reversal and / or susceptibility of insects of said same species to (a) crops expressing an endotoxin, or (b) chemical insecticides.

71. The method of any one of claims 58-70, wherein the field comprises genetically modified (GMO) corn, GMO soybean, GMO cotton, GMO sugarcane, GMO millet, GMO sorghum, GMO rice, non-GMO corn, non-GMO soybean, non-GMO cotton, non-GMO sugarcane, non-GMO millet, non-GMO sorghum, non-GMO rice, or any combination thereof.

72. The method of claim 71, wherein the corn field comprises corn expressing an endotoxin.

73. The method of claim 72, wherein the endotoxin comprises Bt delta, Vip3a, Cryl, Cry2, Cry3, Cry4, Cry5, Cry6, Cry7, Cry8, Cry9, Cry 10, Cry 11, Cry 12, Cry 13, Cry 14, Cry 15, Cry 16, Cryl7, Cryl8, Cryl9, Cry20, Cry21, Cry22, Cry23, Cry24, Cry25, Cry26, Cry27, Cry 28, Cry 29, Cry 30, Cry31, Cry32, Cry33, Cry34, Cry35, Cry36, Cry37, Cry38, Cry39, Cry40, Cry41, Cry42, Cry43, Cry44, Cry45, Cry 46, Cry47, Cry49, Cry 51, Cry55, Cytl, Cyt2, or a combination thereof.

74. The method of any one of claims 71-73, wherein the corn field has been sprayed with a pesticide for the lepidopteran insect prior to placing the device in the field.

75. The method of any one of claims 71-73, wherein the corn field has not been sprayed with a pesticide for the lepidopteran insect prior to placing the device in the field.

76. The method of any one of claims 58-70, wherein the field comprises a corn field, a soybean field, or a cotton field.

77. A method, comprising: obtaining information of a wild population of a lepidopteran insect in a field, optionally wherein obtaining the information comprises forecasting; selecting a location in the field, a date, and / or a time during the day based on the obtained information; placing a device of any one of claims 1-53 at the selected location, time during the day, and / or date; and allowing adults of the lepidopteran insect to emerge and exit the device, wherein the adults mate with the wild population.

78. The method of claim 76, comprising measuring the number of males of the lepidopteran insect that have exited a single container.

79. The method of claim 76 or claim 78, comprising measuring the number of males of the lepidopteran insect that have exited multiple containers in one or more devices in the field.

80. The method of claim 78 or claim 79, comprising using the number of males that have exited a single container and / or the number of males that have exited multiple containers in one or more devices in the field to inform the number of containers and / or devices in a given area, the locations of the containers and / or devices in the given area, and / or the frequency of placing the containers and / or devices in the given area.

81. A non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising processor-executable instructions to cause a processor to: obtain information of a wild population of a lepidopteran insect in a field, optionally wherein the processor-executable instructions cause the processor to forecast the information; provide instruction or recommendation to a user for selecting a location in the field, a date, and / or a time during the day based on the obtained information and for placing a device of any one of claims 1-53 at the selected location, time during the day, and / or date.

82. The method of any of claims 54-80 or the non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 81, for use in controlling the wild population of the lepidopteran insect in the geographic region.

83. The method of any of claims 54-80 or the non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 81, wherein the adults that exit the device are males only or females only, or include both males and females.

84. The method of any of claims 54-80 or the non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 81, wherein the adults that exit the device are:(a) genetically engineered insects that mate with wild insects of the same species of the opposite sex, and(b) sterile or sterilized insects that mate with wild insects of the same species of the opposite sex, optionally wherein the insects are sterilized using radiation, thereby controlling the wild population in the geographic region.

85. The method of any of claims 54-80 or the non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 81, wherein the lepidopteran insect is a moth of the genus Spodoptera, Helicoverpa, Chrysodeixis, Anticarsia, Peridroma, or Heliothis.

86. The method of any of claims 60 or 61, the device of any of claims 12-13, wherein the one or multiple containers are removable and replaceable.

87. A device comprising:(i) a housing comprising three containers, wherein each container comprises:(a) a base comprising a bottom wall and a sidewall, wherein the bottom wall and the side wall enclose a space; and(b) a spacer on the base, wherein the spacer partitions the space into a plurality of compartments each configured to hold pupae of a lepidopteran insect; wherein the sidewall comprises a plurality of openings each configured to allow exit of an adult of the lepidopteran insect from a compartment of the plurality of compartments;(ii) a lid configured to engage the sidewall and / or the bottom wall such that the container has a closed configuration and an open configuration, wherein the bottom wall, the sidewall, and the lid together enclose the space when the container is in the closed configuration;(iii) a cover configured to cover at least a portion of the base and / or at least a portion of the lid, wherein the cover is a shading structure; wherein any one or more of the components of the device comprises cardboard, plastic, a corrugated material (e.g., corrugated plastic), or any combination thereof; wherein the container is configured to maintain the temperature in the spacer between about 15°C and about 35°C and the humidity above about 75% when the container is in a closed configuration; and wherein the one or multiple containers are removable and replaceable.

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