Evaluation of pyrethroid insecticides on field populations of lesser mealworms, Alphitobius diaperinus, as part of an integrated pest management program in poultry production

A field trial was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of Lambda-Cyhalothrin, 9.7% against lesser mealworms, Alphitobius diaperinus, when applied to soil, litter and structures located on poultry ranches. “Houses” were treated at the label rate of 0.8 oz (23.7 mL) of Demand® CS per 800 ft² (74.3 m²), with the formulation being evenly applied to the floors (soil), litter and any exposed surface of the inside of the house. Applications were made between flocks, during “clean-out.” Each “house” was monitored with PVC tube traps. Monitoring traps were emptied and beetle counts were recorded weekly for each flock.

Efficacy of the insecticide treatments varied between chicken and turkey facilities. However, laboratory evaluations demonstrated these populations were susceptible to pyrethroid insecticides. Differing IPM practices between the turkey and chicken production facilities proved to be an important factor in the effectiveness of Demand® CS, as well as the control of lesser mealworm populations.