Mosquito Control Evolved: A Legacy of Leadership
For over half a century, Central Life Sciences has led the way in mosquito control, transforming how professionals manage mosquito populations with groundbreaking technologies and forward-thinking solutions. From pioneering the discovery of insect growth regulators (IGRs) to embracing cutting-edge drone technology, Central Life Sciences continues to evolve and push the industry forward.
A New Class of Control: Where It All Began
The innovation story began in 1968 when Dr. Carl Djerassi founded Zoëcon to commercialize his team’s revolutionary discovery: insect growth regulators (IGRs). These molecules, including S-methoprene, S-hydroprene, and S-kinoprene, broke new ground by targeting insects at the developmental stage, disrupting the life cycles and preventing reproduction. This new approach created a more environmentally compatible way to control mosquitoes and other insect pests and set the tone for decades of industry leadership.
Milestones That Moved the Industry
Central Life Sciences’ commitment to progress has resulted in a long line of product innovations that continue to empower Mosquito Abatement Districts (MADs) and Public Health Officials (PHOs) across the country:
- 1975: EPA grants complete commercial registration for methoprene (Marketed as Altosid® SR-10 Insect Growth Regulator, now available Altosid® Liquid Larvicide), revolutionizing larval mosquito control.
- 1986: Altosid® 30-Day Briquets offer long-lasting control in hard-to-reach environments.
- 1997: Altosid XR-G® launches, offering extended residual control in a granule formulation, perfect for large area applications targeting both nuisance and disease-carrying mosquitoes.
- 2007: Zenivex® adulticide debuts with etofenprox, offering effective mosquito knockdown with a new A.I. and EPA reduced-risk classification.
- 2013: Acquisition of FourStar® Microbial Products strengthens the portfolio with biological larvicides derived from naturally occurring soil bacteria.
- 2017: Introduction of Altosid® P35 and Duplex™-G larvicides offering long-lasting control in continuously wet conditions and pre-flood environments.
Each milestone reflects a deeper commitment to innovation rooted in science, field insight, and real-world performance.
Soaring to New Heights with Leading Edge
In 2024, Central Life Sciences reached a pivotal moment in its history with the acquisition of Leading Edge Aerial Technologies, the pioneers of Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) mosquito control applications. This strategic move united two powerhouses: the inventors of IGR technology and the innovators of drone-based aerial treatments.
The result? Central UAS Technologies – a comprehensive solution that equips MADs with everything from premium larvicides to sophisticated drone technology, software, and expert support. It’s a one-stop shop for modern mosquito management, designed to increase efficiency, reduce labor costs, and deliver unmatched precision in the field.
Emerging Technologies, Proven Solutions
The rise of drone applications is reshaping mosquito abatement strategies, and Central Life Sciences is leading the charge. With extended-residual larvicides like Altosid XR-G® Ultra, Altosid® P35, and Duplex™-G, professionals can treat more area per load, achieve greater canopy penetration, and reach hard-to-access breeding sites with ease. Some products even provide swath widths of up to 90 feet when paired with drone technology.
Additionally, wide-area larvicide applications using power mist sprayers enable rapid and comprehensive treatment of large areas, even in urban environments and challenging rural terrain. Altosid® Liquid Larvicides offer consistent performance in these calibrated mist blower systems, helping professionals cover more ground with less effort.
Backed by Science, Driven by Experience
Every Central Life Sciences solution is engineered by science and informed by field expertise. The team understands the real-world challenges Mosquito Abatement Districts face—because many of them have walked in those shoes. Whether it’s developing new formulations or optimizing application methods, the company’s mission remains the same: to stay ahead of evolving mosquito threats and deliver effective, responsible control solutions.
From the invention of IGRs to the integration of drone technology through Central UAS Technologies, Central Life Sciences continues to set the standard for what mosquito control can and should be.
We’re not just keeping up with change—we’re leading it. This is Mosquito Control Evolved.