Volatile effects of insect growth regulators against the German cockroach (Dictyoptera: Blattellidae)

Third-instar German cockroach nymphs were held to maturity in continuous proximity to test surfaces treated with hydroprene and fenoxycarb, which they were unable to contact directly. Surfaces tested were unfinished plywood, fiberboard, vinyl tile (absorbent surfaces), glass, stainless steel, ceramic tile, and formica (nonabsorbent surfaces). Number of oothecae, percent egg hatch, and survival did not differ between any fenoxycarb treatment and the untreated controls, but there was significant wing twisting (76-94%) for all nonabsorbent surfaces. Number of oothecae was significantly lower and percent wing twisting was significantly higher for all hydroprene-treated surfaces with respect to the untreated controls, although survival was not affected. These effects were less pronounced for the nonabsorbent surfaces. These results indicate that hydroprene, but not fenoxycarb, has significant biological activity through volatile action when applied at current label rates. This activity is likely to have important consequences for control, especially for "crack and crevice" applications in confined spaces.