🦟 Tunnel Test for Mosquito Behavioral Studies
Explore mosquito host-seeking behavior and evaluate vector control interventions using the Tunnel Test – a scientifically validated, semi-field bioassay system that mimics natural host-seeking conditions.
What is a Tunnel Test?
The Tunnel Test is a standardized method used to assess the effectiveness of insecticide-treated materials (ITMs), attractants, or mosquito traps in controlled environments. This setup replicates conditions that mosquitoes encounter in real-world situations—allowing researchers to study mosquito behavior, such as host attraction, penetration through nets or screens, and mortality outcomes, in response to interventions.
Test Setup
A typical tunnel test apparatus consists of a rectangular tunnel chamber—often fabricated from clear acrylic, plexiglass, or mesh—and divided into three sections:
- Release chamber (for mosquitoes)
- Central partition (with treated or untreated netting with standard holes)
- Host or attractant chamber (often containing a restrained animal or synthetic attractant)
Key Parameters Measured
Mosquito passage through treated barriers
Landing rate and feeding attempts
Mortality rate after exposure to treatments
Repellency or deterrence effects
Materials & Construction
Tunnel dimensions often range from 25–60 cm (H) × 25–60 cm (W) × 100–150 cm (L)
Made of plexiglass or acrylic for visibility and durability
Mesh partitions to simulate net-like barriers
Fine-scale thermoregulated conditions for experimental consistency
Applications
Evaluating the bioefficacy of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs)
Testing attract-and-kill strategies (e.g., traps, COâ‚‚ lures)
Studying mosquito behavior in response to host cues
Pre-screening vector control products under semi-field conditions
Advantages
âś“ Controlled, replicable environment
âś“ Ethically compliant with WHO guidelines
âś“ Cost-effective alternative to full-field studies
âś“ Suitable for both lab-reared and wild mosquito strains
Customization & Accessories
We offer customizable tunnel test setups suitable for laboratories, vector control programs, and entomological research. Accessories such as lighting modules, temperature-humidity control, and automated video monitoring can be integrated upon request
