A Novel Long-lasting and Broad-spectrum Ant Bait

Abstract:
Baits (station, granule, gel and liquid) are widely used in the control of ant pests because of their effectiveness, ease of application, and their reduced risk to people, pets and the environment. Among the types of baits, gel baits are the most popular bait type for ant control. However, after application most gel baits rapidly lose their attractiveness, and thus become less effective, due to rapid moisture loss from the bait. We have developed an innovative, long-lasting and broad-spectrum bait (0.03% imidacloprid) for the control of ant pests in indoor and outdoor environments. Laboratory studies and field trials, conducted on a world-wide basis by Pest Management Professionals (PMPs), independent and University researchers, have demonstrated this bait is highly attractive to over 35 ant species, which represent over 18 genera in 7 families, including the most common urban ant species around the world. Results show the bait has a long-lasting palatability (over 6 months), with superior foraging worker recruitment, brood and queen elimination in several most important ant species, including the Pharaoh’s ant, Monomorium pharaonis; Argentine ant, Linepithema humile; odorous house ant, Tapinoma sessile, and Ghost ant, Tapinoma melanocephalum. A field program, incorporated in a pest management firm’s routine quarterly perimeter pest services, showed that Maxforce Quantum helped reduce customer call-backs on ant control for 49% in their 383 service accounts. The paper will review various lab studies, field trials, and will discuss the global registration status.