FIELD-EVALUATION OF PERIMETER TREATMENTS FOR PHARAOH ANT (HYMENOPTERA, FORMICIDAE) CONTROL

Four types of exterior perimeter treatments for the control of Pharaoh ante, Monomorium pharaonis (L), in houses were compared. Treatment wi th a granular bait containing hydramethylnon, a delayed-action toxican t, resulted in a 95% reduction in foraging activity 1 and 4 weeks afte r treatment. Houses treated with either an insecticidal residual spray , insecticide granules, or a granular bait containing a contact insect icide, had an average increase of 22% in foraging activity. Foraging b y Pharaoh ants on a delayed-action toxicant bait applied solely to the exterior periphery of houses controlled Pharaoh ant colonies located inside the structure. Exterior perimeter baiting for Pharaoh ants coul d reduce indoor insecticide applications.