UoH student’s research offers solution to acid fly problem in hostels

Tejas Anto Kannampuzha, a 2022 graduate in the Physics stream from the University of Hyderabad (UoH), has devised an innovative solution to combat the recurring issue of Acid Fly attacks in the university’s student hostels
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Tejas Anto Kannampuzha, a 2022 graduate in Physics stream from the University of Hyderabad (UoH), has devised an innovative solution to combat the recurring issue of Acid Fly attacks in the university’s student hostels. Collaborating with B.R. Shamanna from the School of Medical Sciences, Mr. Tejas utilised a practical approach based on reducing ultraviolet A (UV-A) radiation emitted by light sources in hostel rooms.

Acid Flies, specifically the Paederus species, are notorious pests whose contact causes Paederus dermatitis, a skin condition characterised by acidic burns. This issue has plagued students at night, creating considerable discomfort. Mr. Tejas conducted a study involving 209 hostel residents affected by an outbreak of Paederus dermatitis. His research demonstrated that LED lights, which emit significantly less UV-A radiation than compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) or incandescent lights, were far more effective in reducing these fly attacks in hostel rooms.

The study, a collaboration of applied science and practical implementation, was published in the Indian Journal of Entomology.

The findings highlight the impact of a simple change in lighting. By replacing CFLs and incandescent bulbs with LED lights, the university can mitigate this persistent and troublesome pest problem, as per a release.

UoH Vice-Chancellor B.J. Rao praised the research team’s practicality. He encouraged further exploration into the ‘fly attraction coefficient’ by analysing light sources varying in UV content and intensity.