The use of attractants in traps has been shown to significantly increase capture rates of most mosquito species.
Mega-Catch™ Fragrance Strips
Mega-Catch™ Fragrance Strips contain minute quantities of synthetic Octenol and other specially formulated ingredients which are designed to attract a wider range of mosquitoes and other biting insects including sand flies, black flies and biting midges (no-see-ums). Octenol, is sometimes described as ‘cow’s breath in a can’, and mosquitoes can detect this chemical from almost 100 feet away. Some, but not all mosquito species are attracted to Octenol, however studies have determined it is effective against the potentially deadly Zika-transmitting Aedes aegypti mosquito.
All Mega-Catch™ mosquito traps are designed to work with or without attractants however different mosquito species respond in different ways and there are so many variations in their behaviors and in the things that attract and repel them. Some species may not be overly attracted to Octenol so it pays to experiment in order to determine whether Mega-Catch™ Fragrance Strips are MORE or LESS effective with the mosquito species in your area.
Once opened the active attracting ingredients will slowly dissipate. We recommend that lures should be replaced every 30 days to remain effective and to maintain optimum capture rates throughout the entire season.
When storing your trap at the end of the season, remove and discard any opened attractant lures.
Octenol Molecule
Octenol (1-Octen-3-ol) is a by-product of the respiration of ruminants (e.g. oxen and cattle) and is sometimes referred to as “cow’s breath”. It is also produced naturally by several plants and fungi, including edible mushrooms.