Transfluthrin Spatial Repellent on US Military Camouflage Netting Reduces Tabanids in a Warm-Temperate Environment

Area of Science:

• Entomology
• Environmental Science
• Pest Management

Background:

• Tabanid biting flies pose significant risks to military personnel and livestock due to painful bites and potential pathogen transmission.
• Existing pest management strategies require effective, long-lasting solutions for field environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of transfluthrin-treated camouflage netting in reducing tabanid fly populations.
• To assess the residual effectiveness of transfluthrin over time in a warm-temperate climate.

Main Methods:

• Field trials were conducted on the Gulf Coast of Florida.
• US military camouflage netting was treated with transfluthrin.
• Tabanid fly collections were monitored inside and outside treated areas over a 20-day period.

Main Results:

• Transfluthrin significantly reduced tabanid fly collections by up to 96% immediately after treatment.
• Efficacy remained substantial, with reductions up to 74% observed 20 days posttreatment.
• A variety of medically and veterinarily important tabanid species were affected.

Conclusions:

• Transfluthrin-treated netting is a highly effective tool for reducing tabanid fly populations.
• This approach shows promise for integration into the US Department of Defense's pest management programs.
• Transfluthrin offers a viable solution for protecting humans and livestock from tabanid-borne diseases and nuisance bites in civilian settings.