EVALUATION OF BAITS FOR TERMITES (ISOPTERA, RHINOTERMITIDAE) IN TEXAS

Two baits, hydramethylnon (American Cyanamid Company) and hexaflumuron (DowElanco - Sentricon Colony Elimination System(R)), were evaluated for the control of subterranean termites in Texas. Hydramethylnon bait was tested for one year at four structures infested with subterranean termites. Control of termites was not achieved; however, colony suppr ession, as indicated by the number of wood stakes attacked by termites , may have occurred at two locations. Hexaflumuron bait was tested for two years at seven structures infested with subterranean termites. Co ntrol of termites occurred at one location where more than 17 Baitubes (R) were consumed. Colony suppression, as indicated by the number of m onitoring stations attacked by termites, appears to have occurred at t wo structures. With both hydramethylnon and hexaflumuron, lack of term ite activity at bait stations might indicate a reduction in colony pop ulation size (or elimination); however, independent monitoring station s (wooden stakes and wood blocks) used during these tests indicated th at termites were present even though termites were not detected in the bait stations.