MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) -- A Memphis entomologist has created a bed bug monitor.
The ClimbUp Insect Interceptor looks like a white, plastic underside of a dog bowl with two wells to determine whether bed bugs are present in a household.
The center well, coated with talc to keep the bugs trapped inside, tells if the stink bug's cousin is climbing down from the bed. The outer pitfall, coated with slick paper, determines if it is approaching the bed from the room.
It's the creation of Susan McKnight, who told The Commercial Appeal it's a needed public service.
Founded a year ago, Susan McKnight Inc. sold 36,000 units in September to half a dozen distributors and through individual orders online, up from 8,000 in August.
(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
