In the summer of 1984 and 1985 comparative trials for the surveillance of Aedes aegypti were performed. In both occasions the most effective trap was one made by cutting an automobile tire in three parts. The Chan´s autocide trap, modified by Cheng et al. (1982) was less effective than the tires as well as the baked clay containers routinely used by the "Superintendência de Campanhas de Saúde Pública (SUCAM)." It was found also that plants on the traps increase to a great extent its attractiveness. This procedure however, is not functional for its routine use. The tires must always be taken to the laboratory and filled with water for the hatching of eggs. This practice has duplicated the positivity of the ovitrap. In view of the persistence of non hatched eggs the flaming of the traps must always be done before exposition. The finding of pupae 7 days after exposition shows that this period can not be exceded. Tires are more effective traps and have also the advantages of being costless and non breakable.
