Abstract: Novel generic antibodies are provided that are specific to groups of organophosphates, particularly to a class of organophosphate pesticides in common usage. Further provided are compounds and methods for raising these antibodies, test kits containing them and methods for their use. The antibodies targeted at low molecular weight (i.e. below MW 1000) organophosphorous pesticides methacrifos, pirimphos methyl, etrimfos, fenitrothion, chlopyrifos methyl, dichlorovos and malathion. Preferred conjugates of the invention are of the formula (RO).sub.2 --P(S)--Z--?Y!-Protein wherein R is lower alkyl and Z is as O, S or --NH--, Y is a spacer group and "Protein" indicates a protein suitable for use in hapten protein conjugates for the purpose of raising antibodies and antisera. Typical and preferred proteins are bovine serum albumin, ovalbumin from chicken egg, keyhole limpet hemocyananin and mixtures of these.

Abstract: Labelling techniques for specific binding agents are provided wherein the label used comprises a microcapsule containing a nucleotide, preferably in solid form and preferably in crystalline form. Preferred nucleotide is ATP. The presence of labelled agent is determined by disrupting the microcapsule and measuring the amount of nucleotide so released; that being related to the amount of binding agent and thus any related interaction with the target for that agent such as a specific DNA or microorganism.

Abstract: A bait is provided particularly adapted for attracting and arresting mites such that when used in a particular trap it allows non-destructive collection of mites from a produce. This enables study and enumeration of mites to be more easily carried out than with previous bait/trap combinations. The bait takes the form of an aqueous gel body which is then mounted within an apertured container which forms the trap. The gel may further contain other attractant and arrestant components and its use allows mechanical trapping mechanisms to be dispensed with.A method of assessing infestation status and a trap for mounting the bait are also provided, together with methods for using the bait and/or trap as a microbial detector.

Abstract: Novel multi-component insect lures comprising (3Z,6Z)-dodecadien-12-olide and 13-methyl-(5Z,8Z)-tetradecadien-13-olide together with a fungal volatile selected from the group consisting of 1-octen-3-ol and 3-methylbutanol, wherein the amount of 11-methyl-(3Z,6Z)-dodecadien-11-olide in the composition is substantially zero, and a novel method for production of these pheromones, whereby the cost of active components may be reduced to economically advantageous levels. The lures are particularly effective in attracting saw-toothed grain beetles of group Coleoptera, Cucujidae, particularly species Oryzaephilus surinamensis.