Novel acrylamide-based baits for effective control of subterranean termites (Blattodea: Rhinotermitidae)

Sohail Abbas, Aleena Alam, Muneer Abbas, Feng Xiao, Liu Jiali, Umar Daood, Faisal Hafeez, Muhammad Shakeel, Jamin Ali, Khalid Ali Khan, Hamed A. Ghramh, Donato Romano, Chen Ri Zhao

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Acrylamide-based bait has super water absorption making it highly attractive to subterranean termites that are lured by wood with high water content. This study investigated the control efficiency of these baits on subterranean termites. In particular, we evaluated the water-absorption capacity, attractiveness to subterranean termites, and control efficiency of these baits on subterranean termites through wooden blocks (Populus deltoides and three types of particleboards). RESULTS: The results indicated a substantial water absorption capacity of acrylamide (70.6%; control: 14.8%) and a strong attraction for feeding subterranean termites (P. deltoides: 198 highest; 81 lowest subterranean termites individuals; combination of neem leaves and walnut shells: 168 highest; 36 lowest subterranean termites individuals). When acrylamide was combined with boric acid at the highest concentration, it resulted in the lowest wood consumption rates (P. deltoides: 24.1%; control: 63.8%, combination of neem leaves and walnut shells: 32.5%; control: 62.1%). CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, this research supports the commercial viability of employing innovative acrylamide-based toxic baits and particleboards for subterranean termite management.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)5995-6006
Number of pages12
JournalPest Management Science
Volume80
Issue number11
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Nov 2024
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • acrylamide
  • particleboard blocks
  • subterranean termites
  • superabsorbent polymer
  • wood types

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Agronomy and Crop Science
  • Insect Science

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