Scientists Have Built a “Mosquito Toilet” 🦟🚽

Science has tackled some of humanity's greatest challenges. We've put people on the moon. We've mapped the human genome. We're developing artificial intelligence.

And now...

We've built a tiny toilet for mosquitoes.

Frankly, it was about time. Those little jerks have been using our arms as an all-you-can-eat buffet for years.

Yes, It's an Actual Mosquito Toilet

Researchers at Rutgers University have developed a 3D-printed, water-repellent funnel designed to collect mosquito waste without harming the insects. Which immediately raises an important question:

Do mosquitoes need a toilet this badly? But there's actually some fascinating science behind it.

Researchers can analyze genetic material found in mosquito waste to determine what viruses and parasites may be circulating in an area.

And this has already produced some eye-opening results. Waste collected from wild mosquitoes in Ontario contained a complete West Nile virus genome, along with rare viruses and 35 types of parasites.

Suddenly the tiny toilet seems a lot less ridiculous.

Mosquito Poop Could Help Track Disease

Traditional mosquito surveillance often involves testing specifically for pathogens researchers already suspect may be present. This new approach uses genetic sequencing to potentially identify a much wider range of organisms at once.

RELATED: Apparently, Ontario Mosquitoes Have Started Working the Day Shift 🦟

I have spent my entire life slapping mosquitoes against my thigh without a shred of remorse, and scientists are over here building them private bathrooms.

Next they'll get heated toilet seats and little magazines. 🦟🚽