ORIGINAL
The Gravitrap is a non-toxic mosquito trap developed by the National Environment Agency (NEA). It attracts egg-carrying female Aedes mosquitoes (the carriers of dengue and Zika) using water and lures. Once inside, the mosquitoes are caught on a sticky glue board, preventing them from laying eggs or biting humans. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
How it Works
- The Lure: The trap uses a container filled with water to mimic a prime spot for mosquitoes to lay eggs.
- The Catch: As the mosquito enters, she gets stuck on the inner Glueboard.
- Safe Design: Wire gauze above the water blocks any trapped mosquito from laying eggs, or traps any eggs laid so new mosquitoes cannot hatch and escape. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
How to Use and Maintain It
You can purchase Gravitraps from local retailers like Shopee Singapore or Bugs-Stop for under $10 to $20. To get the most out of your trap: [1, 2, 3]
- Placement: Place traps in dark, shaded corners and resting areas, about 5 to 10 meters apart from one another.
- Water Levels: Fill the base with water until it escapes from the overflow holes. Top up the water regularly.
- Glue Board: Inspect the Glue Board once every two weeks and change it monthly.
- Safety: If you see mosquito larvae (wigglers) in the water, flush them directly down the toilet bowl. Do not pour them into a sink or outdoor drain. [1, 2, 3, 4]
Why the NEA Uses It
The NEA has deployed over 50,000 Gravitraps across Singapore to track mosquito populations and stop dengue outbreaks. Because they attract egg-carrying mosquitoes that are not looking for blood, these traps will not attract biting mosquitoes to your home. Instead, they act as an early warning system to help control the local insect population. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6]
If you're dealing with mosquitoes in your area, tell me:
- Do you need help placing traps indoors or outdoors?
- Are you looking to buy a Gravitrap, or maintain one you already have?
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