FACTORS INVOLVED IN THE SUCCESSFUL USE OF HYDRAMETHYLNON BAITS IN HOUSEHOLD AND INDUSTRIAL PEST CONTROL

Abstract:
Commercial bait products are becoming increasingly important for household and industrial pest control. The advantages of baits are widely acknowledged and include convenience and ease of use, discrete placement of the insecticide, reduced environmental contamination and minimal disruption to the customer during application. When ingested by an insect hydrarnethylnon inhibits mitochondria1 electron transport and thus the formation of ATP, an essential energy supply for most biological processes. This unique mode of action makes hydramethylnon the ideal complement for modem pest control practices. Laboratory and field testing of hydramethylnon baits against ants and cockroaches has provided a wealth of information relating to the many factors that can affect performance. This has led to improvements in the design and dispensing of baits. It is recognised that there are some situations where insecticidal baits are used in conjunction with other pest control products. The successful integration of baiting and conventional treatments is discussed.