USF researchers use AI and satellite technology to target mosquito breeding grounds amid dengue outbreak

USF researchers are using high-tech tools to help fight the dengue fever outbreak in Tampa Bay, working with the Florida Department of Health to find and eliminate mosquito breeding grounds before the insects have a chance to multiply.AI mosquito trackingThe effort takes a more targeted approach than traditional mosquito spraying, which can cover broad areas from the air and the ground.Researchers use artificial intelligence to identify locations where mosquitoes are likely to breed, including small pockets of standing water in items such as discarded tires, birdbaths and flowerpots.The team then uses satellite imagery to identify potential mosquito habitats within about 10 meters. Geographic mapping helps narrow down the locations, so crews can target the specific breeding sites.USF researchers recently demonstrated the technology to Department of Health workers, explaining how the approach could help identify areas that broader mosquito-control efforts might miss.Targeted eradication