Mosquito Attractants 101

The use of Octenol attractant lures in mosquito traps has been shown to significantly increase capture rates of most mosquito species.

Octenol (1-Octen-3-ol) is a by-product of the respiration of ruminants (e.g. oxen & cattle) and is sometimes referred to as “cow’s breath”. It is also produced naturally by several plants and fungi, including edible mushrooms. It is approved by the USFDA as a food additive and is a component of some perfumes. EPA research confirms that Octenol, when released into the air is not harmful to humans or to the environment. However, at concentrations above certain levels it can be a skin and eye irritant and must be sold in child resistant packaging.

Mega-Catch™ Octenol Fragrance Strips

Mega-Catch™ Mega-Catch Octenol Fragrance Strips contain minute quantities of synthetic Octenol and other specially formulated ingredients which are designed to attract mosquitoes and other biting insects including biting midges (nosee- ums), sand flies and black flies. All Mega-Catch™ traps are designed to work WITH or WITHOUT Mega-Catch Octenol Fragrance Strips. We recommend experimenting to determine if Octenol is MORE or LESS effective with the mosquito species in the area and advise customers to begin operating their traps with a lure for the first two weeks, and then without a lure for the next two weeks.

Features of Mega-Catch™ Octenol Fragrance Strips:

• Proven to enhance trap performance and increase capture rates of most mosquito species, biting midges (no-see-ums), sand flies, black flies and other biting insects
• Superior composition including a wax matrix for stable consistency and controlled release of the attractant
• EPA registered and approved
• Each lure is active for up to 30 days
• Replacements are available in convenient, twin packs

Once opened the octenol will slowly evaporate and lures should be replaced every 30 days to maintain optimum capture rates throughout the entire season.