Laboratory evaluation of four termiticides on tunneling behavior of Reticulitermes flavipes (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae)

A laboratory study was initiated to examine the effects of four termiticides on R. flavipes. Glass arenas were assembled and divided into three zones: nest zone, buffer zone and treatment zone. All termiticides were applied at manufacturer's recommended label rates. Five hundred termites were added to each arena. Data collected included distance tunneled, mortality and location of cadavers. Tests were allowed to run for 28d or until 100% mortality of termites was recorded. All treatments resulted in at least moderate levels of mortality, tunneling was inhibited initially but increased, and location of cadavers were greatest in the buffer zone of arenas.