Hybrid Nano-Bio Larvicide Composition and Method for Controlling Culicoides Biting Midges and Mosquitoes

Abstract

A slow-release biodegradable particulate larvicide composition for controlling larvae of Culicoides biting midges and mosquitoes comprises silver nanoparticles, Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis, a juvenile-hormone-analog insect growth regulator, a chitosan-alginate matrix cross-linked with calcium chloride, and one or more larval attractants and/or carbon-dioxide-releasing components. The composition may be provided as granules or microparticles for application to saline, brackish, intermittently flooded, or other moist larval habitats, including coastal salt-marsh habitats and standing-water sites. The matrix retains the active ingredients in the treatment zone and meters release upon hydration. Also disclosed are methods of preparing the particulate composition and methods of controlling biting-midge and mosquito larvae by applying the composition to larval habitat.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.