Control of mosquito larvae in seasonal wetlands on a wildlife refuge using VectoMax CG

There is a great need for novel insecticides to control mosquitoes. VectoMax is a new mosquito larvicide that combines toxins from Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. israelensis (Bti) and Bacillus sphaericus (Bs), and is designed to provide extended mosquito control. We tested the initial efficacy and longevity of control of mosquitoes using one of the formulations, VectoMax CG, in a full-scale study conducted in seasonal wetlands. VectoMax CG was applied by air at 8.9 kg/ha to 3 wetlands and 3 others were untreated controls. VectoMax CG controlled Culex tarsalis through day 28 and showed activity against Aedes melanimon. Use of this dual-material, extended-action formulation could minimize inspection visits and reduce application costs compared to Bti and Bs alone, and its combination of toxins may forestall resistance development.