Cryptotermes brevis (Isoptera: Kalotermitidae) alate attraction to different light wavelengths in south Florida and the Azores Islands

Cryptotermes brevis is a very important pest of wood both in South Florida and the Azorean islands, causing damage to furniture and wood structures. During the dispersal flight season, alates leave their colony to initiate new infestations. Alates are attracted to lights, and 6 different light wavelengths were tested for alate preference including 395 nm (Ultraviolet); 450 nm (White); 470 nm (Blue); 525 nm (green); 590 nm (Yellow); and 625 nm (Red). An unlit trap was included as a control. Choice tests were offered to alate populations in South Florida and in the Azores. The alates showed significant preference for shorter wavelength lights with blue having the highest number of alates captured, followed by green and white. This information can be used in a trap-out program to prevent colonization and the spread of the pest./i>