Installation Season May Significantly Impact Time Required for Subterranean Termites to Find and Feed on In-Ground
Andrew M Sutherland1, Casey Hubble1, Molly Barber1
1Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of California, Davis, CA 95618, USA.
Insects
|May 27, 2022
Summary
Timing is crucial for controlling termites with chitin synthesis inhibitors. Installing baits before peak foraging seasons, particularly in winter for California
Area of Science:
- Entomology
- Pest Management
- Ecology
Background:
- Rhinotermitid termites are significant global pests of wooden structures.
- Chitin synthesis inhibitor (CSI) baits are common control methods.
- Seasonal foraging patterns can impact CSI bait effectiveness by prolonging interception times.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the optimal timing for installing CSI baits to minimize interception time for *Reticulitermes* spp. in California's Mediterranean climate.
- To evaluate the influence of installation season on bait interception time and subsequent colony elimination speed.
Main Methods:
- Three CSI bait systems were deployed across five field sites in California.
- Baits were installed seasonally (spring, summer, autumn, winter) over two years.
- Termite discovery events and interception times were recorded every 60 days, analyzing effects of season, bait type, site, and location.
Main Results:
- Termite foraging activity peaked in late winter and spring.
- Baits installed in winter had over 100 days shorter interception times compared to summer installations.
- Installation season significantly affected bait interception time.
Conclusions:
- Installing CSI baits immediately before the wet season (winter) optimizes termite interception time in Mediterranean climates.
- Strategic baiting timing can enhance colony elimination speed and CSI bait efficacy.
- Understanding seasonal foraging patterns is key for effective termite management.
