Localized treatments using commercial dust and liquid formulations of fipronil against Coptotermes formosanus (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae) in the laboratory
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-2014
Abstract
Use of proper application methods and formulations of termiticides are important to reduce their negative impact to the environment. In this study, we conducted laboratory experiments to determine the effect of localized treatments with commercial dust and liquid formulations of fipronil against Formosan subterranean termites, Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki. The test arena consisted of a specially designed 16-chambered structure with a center chamber connected to 5 foraging chambers that themselves were connected to 10 additional foraging chambers. One peripheral chamber received a liquid or dust treatment and termites were released in the center chamber. Results showed that >91% of the termites were dead within the 9-d test period despite the localized treatment of only 1 foraging chamber. Termites that were still alive after 9 d were transferred to an untreated dish and held for 10 more days. The majority of those termites were dead and the rest were moribund on day 19. Regardless of the specific dish treated, both formulations of fipronil were found to be highly efficacious. Termites did not exhibit repellency to either formulation. Our results suggest that localized (or spot) treatment with either commercially available dust or liquid formulations of fipronil can be a viable option for control of a termite infestation where complete soil drenching is not desirable. © 2013 Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences.
Publication Source (Journal or Book title)
Insect Science
First Page
174
Last Page
180
Recommended Citation
Gautam, B., Henderson, G., & Wang, C. (2014). Localized treatments using commercial dust and liquid formulations of fipronil against Coptotermes formosanus (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae) in the laboratory. Insect Science, 21 (2), 174-180. https://doi.org/10.1111/1744-7917.12041