Summer has already arrived in the northern hemisphere, and with it the annoying mosquito bites. For this reason, many people choose to post these typical mosquito repellent that are connected to an electrical outlet. It’s funny how something so small can kill these insects so easily, but how does it do it?
To answer this question, we must keep in mind that not all mosquito control devices are the same. If we focus on those used indoors, we will find those based on ultrasound and those containing refills with insecticideseither in liquid form or in tablets. It should be noted that only the latter are really useful.
Studies on this subject over the past 20 years show that ultrasound is not effective in controlling mosquitoes. They don’t hear them, and if they did can match them. Even her own Consumer and User Organization (OCU) issued a statement in 2019 warning that these mosquito repellent devices are useless. On the other hand, those containing tablets or liquids have a proven effect. Let’s see what they are made of.
Mosquito control devices with insecticide, the best option
The operation of this type of mosquito control device is very simple. As long as they are connected, little by little they release insecticide into the environment which can be of various types.
As a rule, they must contain pyrethroid. These are a kind of artificial insecticides that were first obtained trying to synthesize pyrethrin, another type of insecticide produced naturally in plants such as chrysanthemums. They have proven to be very effective for several reasons. But mainly because they need small doses to act on mosquitoes, do not accumulate easily in the middle (although they remain longer than pyrethrin) and are safe at doses used in humans and other mammals. However, that is what it was originally intended to be. Over time, it has been observed that they can infect some mammals, such as rodents, so it is important to follow product safety precautions. They point out the correct use so that it is safe for us and our pets.
Pyrethroids are synthetic insecticides that have been obtained through the production of pyrethrins, such as those found in chrysanthemums.
Regarding its action on mosquitoes, almost the same as in the case of pyrethrins. Both insecticides affect the nervous system of these insects by affecting the nerve impulses that transmit information between neurons. This interferes with their normal functioning and ultimately leads to their death.
But not all mosquito repellents contain the same pyrethroids. One of the most common is praletrin, is also used against other insects such as wasps. Often this substance is accompanied by another known as piperonyl butoxidewhich in itself does not have an insecticidal effect, but enhances the action of other substances.
On the other hand, the use of pyrethroids called transfluthrin. It is effective against mosquitoes, cockroaches and dipterans such as flies. It has low persistence, making it safer than pralethrin. However, it is still necessary to use it in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.
In a word, the operation of mosquito devices is simple. A good insecticide, which is gradually released into the environment, nothing more is needed. The topic of ultrasound at first seemed very promising, but over time it was noticed that they are useless. Therefore, for now we will have to continue the classics. Not forgetting physical options like mosquito nets of course.
Source: Hiper Textual
