The evolution of mosquito baiting: from chemical and electronic methods toward AI.

The spread of mosquito-borne diseases is accelerating owing to several factors, including human-made ones. In response, scientists are developing various types of baits, including organic, chemical, and electronic, to lure mosquitoes and monitor, control, and kill them. These baits function by replicating stimuli that attract mosquitoes, including human breath, body heat, color, and mosquito wingbeat sounds. Wingbeat sound baits generated from the wings of female mosquitoes are particularly effective in attracting males. Carbon dioxide is a potent attractant and the closest human mimic among the available mimics. Human metabolism, pregnancy, skin temperature, microbiomes, and other factors all play significant roles in the attractiveness of humans to mosquitoes. Effective bait design requires a comprehensive understanding of mosquito behavior, including feeding, mating, and oviposition patterns. Lab, semifield, and field experimental studies allow researchers to isolate behavioral responses to specific stimuli before evaluating their effectiveness under more realistic ecological conditions. Optimizing the baiting system power maximizes efficiency and success in baiting mosquitoes. The future of mosquito bait lies in automating and digital twinning of baiting systems and in prioritizing human and environmental safety.