Technology Description:

The invention relates to a composition which includes a food-grade photoactive dye, a bait, and optionally a feeding stimulant and selected adjuvant, which when ingested by an insect becomes phototoxic and kills the insect. More specifically the composition is directed to killing economically important fruit flies. Twenty-five fruit fly species have been recently detected in the Western United States. Current control strategies call for bait sprays containing toxins, like Malathion, followed by sterile fly releases to reduce fly populations. However, applying such sprays over populated areas is controversial due to concerns about adverse effects, like impact on beneficial insect groups. The Environmental Protection Agency has specifically requested development of safer pesticides. Photoactive halogenated xanthene dye compounds are highly effective for controlling fruit flies at much lower doses than are used for conventional pesticides.

This technology will benefit the citrus fruit industry, and other agricultural industries where fruit flies are a problem. Agricultural and chemical companies that develop insecticides and other pest control formulations could use this technology.

Please refer to USPN 5,798,112, "Phototoxic Insecticidal Composition and Method for Controlling Insect Population," which issued August 25, 1998, and is a continuation in part of USPN 5,676,959, which issued October 14, 1997.

Inventors:

Robert L. Mangan Crop Quality and Fruit Insects Research Weslaco, TX 78596 (956) 447-6317 / Fax: (956) 447-6323 rmangan@weslaco.ars.usda.gov

Daniel S. Moreno (Same as first inventor) (956) 447-6314 / Fax: (956) 447-6323 dmoreno@weslaco.ars.usda.gov