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Updated 19.XI.2011

Features, applications and options

Different variations of the BG-Sentinel can be used according to the target species, the study aim and conditions in the field. The trap can be used with or without carbon dioxide, and with Biogents' proprietary attractant for a anthropophilic mosquitoes (such as Aedes aegypti or Culex quinquefasciatus), the BG-Lure. We also offer a kit to add UV-light for biting midges (Ceratopogonidae) and other species that are attracted to ultraviolet light.

The BG-Sentinel needs a 12 V DC energy source. For a use on the electricity network, Biogents supplies mains adaptors. In the field, the traps can be hooked up to batteries. For normal field conditions, we suggest the use of motorcycle batteries which are readily available in most regions of the world. A capacity of 11 Ah is needed for every 24 hours (this includes a secruity factor).

Kairomones

Biogents proprietary attractant, the BG-Lure, is normally used to capture yellow fever mosquitoes, their realtives from the genus Stegomyia, and other anthropophilic species. The BG-Lure releases an artificial skin odour (ammonia, lactic acid, and caproic acid) in a finely tuned ration similar to that of human skin. A version of the lure which gives off smaller quanities of the active ingredients is called Sweetscent.

Due to its form and design, the BG-Sentinel also permits the researcher to use highly diverse attractants including live animals as lures or a number of other stimuli, thereby adjusting the capture spectrum precisely to specific needs of the study.

A controlled CO₂ emission for monitoring endemic and invasive mosquito species.

When used in combination with carbon dioxide, the BG-Sentinel is an excellent monitoring trap for mosquitoes in general. The gas is released from an opening above the trap, thereby adding a smaller CO₂ plume to the upwardly directed scent plume in the trap . This mimics the natural spatial distribution of the body scent and breath.

The trap receives a controled supply of carbon dioxide from a compressed gas cylinder: A preset pressure reducer and one of two special sintered element in the outlet tube ensure a constant supply of 500 or 200 grams of CO₂ per 24 hours, independently of the ambient temperature.

In contrast to dry ice, gas cylinders can be stored until use with no trouble. This permits a flexible response to changes in the weather and makes it possible to use the traps at an ideal time. The gas cylinders are the same that are used for draught beer and the production of carbonated drinks in pubs and restaurants.

This configuration of the trap is currently also being used by the Friederich-Löffler-Institute in the Germany-wide mosquito monitoring project called "Geographical and seasonal distribution of endemic and invasive mosquitoes in Germany". In this project, around 60 BG-Sentinels with a CO₂ supply are being used at selected locations throughout Germany to determine the spectrum of the mosquito species.

• Mehlhorn H et al. (2009) Bluetongue disease in Germany (2007-2008): monitoring of entomological aspects. Parasitol. Res. Parasitol. Res. 105(2): 313-319. DOI: 10.3201/eid1509.090562.