Innovative strategies Emerge as Mosquito Populations Surge Across France
MARTILLAC, Gironde, France – As France grapples with an escalating mosquito problem exacerbated by record-breaking heatwaves, residents and entrepreneurs are seeking effective solutions. A growing market is emerging for innovative pest control methods, driven by the increasing prevalence of mosquitoes and the frustration of those affected.
The Rising Threat of Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are proliferating throughout France, with the current heatwave considerably boosting their numbers. The situation reached a critical point for residents of Martillac, Gironde, in 2021 during a period of intense heat. Denis Junqua, a local resident, described the experience as unbearable, stating, “It was an extremely hot summer, similar to that of today. I couldn’t live. I couldn’t enjoy my garden because of the mosquitoes.It was a horror.”
Driven by this experience, Junqua partnered with Jérôme Duprat to establish Genosics, a company dedicated to combating the mosquito issue. They quickly discovered a important unmet need for effective solutions, with some residents even considering selling their homes to escape the relentless pests.
Understanding Mosquito Behavior
Genosics adopted a scientific approach, meticulously studying mosquito behavior to develop targeted solutions. The partners conduct research throughout the year, harvesting larvae during the winter months and observing their development in controlled environments. This allows them to determine optimal timing for interventions and test the efficacy of various products.
Pro Tip: Eliminating standing water around your property is a crucial first step in mosquito control.
“In winter, we harvest larvae and leave them in specific cages, then let them grow,” explains Junqua. “This allows us to get an idea of the fertilization time of the larvae to the adult mosquito. Then we test the most effective products. When we are in intervention with customers, we offer a diagnosis to analyze the environment in which they live, and offer them the best solutions.”
Innovative Control Methods
Genosics offers a range of intervention strategies, from conventional spraying to the installation of advanced traps.Their flagship product, the “Mosquito Graphics” trap, utilizes a strategic combination of carbon dioxide and body odor attractants. According to research published in the Journal of Insect Science,carbon dioxide is a primary attractant for many mosquito species .
the trap emits carbon dioxide, mimicking human breath, and diffuses lactic acid, replicating human body odor. Mosquitoes are lured into the device and trapped within a specialized sachet. “When they approach, they are immediately trapped in a tea sachet, which has a smell of old football bag that has not been washed,” says Duprat. “As the mosquito does not fly very high, it is sucked in at the mouths which are 30 centimeters from the ground.”
The “Mosquito Graphics” trap can capture up to 500 mosquitoes within a 15-meter radius over two weeks, but comes with a price tag of 1500 euros.
A Growing Market and Expanding Range
Junqua and Duprat report a rapidly expanding market for their services, driven by the increasing prevalence of the tiger mosquito. As of January 1, 2025, the tiger mosquito is present in 81 of France’s 96 departments, covering approximately 84% of the metropolitan territory, according to Public Health France. Several new departments were colonized in 2024, including Marne, Haute-marne, and Haute-Saône.
Did You Know? The tiger mosquito is an invasive species originally from Southeast Asia.
“We are increasingly being called upon,” admits Duprat, highlighting the growing demand for effective mosquito control solutions.
| Year | Mosquito Presence (Departments) | Percentage of Metropolitan Territory |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 69 | 72% |
| 2024 | 81 | 84% |
| 2025 (Jan 1) | 81 | 84% |
Looking Ahead
What steps can individuals take to protect themselves from mosquito bites? How will climate change continue to impact mosquito populations in France?
Evergreen Context: Mosquito-Borne Diseases and Prevention
The increasing mosquito population isn’t just a nuisance; it also raises concerns about the spread of mosquito-borne diseases. While diseases like Zika and dengue fever aren’t currently widespread in France, the presence of the tiger mosquito-a known vector for these viruses-increases the risk.Public health officials are closely monitoring the situation and implementing surveillance programs to detect and control potential outbreaks. Preventative measures, such as using mosquito repellent, wearing protective clothing, and eliminating breeding grounds, are crucial for minimizing the risk of infection.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mosquito Control
- What attracts mosquitoes to humans? Mosquitoes are attracted to carbon dioxide,body odor,and heat.
- How can I eliminate mosquito breeding grounds? Remove standing water from containers like flower pots,tires,and gutters.
- Are mosquito traps effective? Traps can significantly reduce mosquito populations,especially when used in conjunction with other control methods.
- What is the best mosquito repellent? Repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus are generally considered most effective.
- is the tiger mosquito dangerous? The tiger mosquito can transmit diseases like dengue fever, Zika virus, and chikungunya.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
