Development of pest management strategies for the common firebrat (Thermobia domestica)

Firebrats (Thermobia domestica) are a cosmopolitan household pest found all over the U.S. Firebrats have been known to damage paper and textile goods in addition to infesting pantries. This study focused on the shortcomings of current management strategies, possible solutions, and the development of new baits for the control of this pest in urban environments. Among the baits tested were commercially available baits, boric acid based baits, and chemical baits developed in the laboratory. The consistency and location of the baits used had a great influence on the efficacy of the control.