Insecticide resistance of Alphitobius diaperinus to β-Cyfluthrin and commercial insecticides on various surfaces common in poultry operations

The lesser mealworm, Alphitobius diaperinus (Panzer) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae), is an important economic pest to poultry producers.  They cause structural damage to poultry houses and can spread pathogens to chickens.  Beetles were collected from 3 farms in Mt. Pleasant, TX and 3 farms in Franklin, TX.  Filter papers were treated with the active ingredient (AI) β-Cyfluthrin.  Additional bioassays were conducted with a permethrin-based insecticide formulation, Vector Ban^®, and a pyrethroid formulation ,Tempo SC Ultra^®, at label rates on various surfaces commonly found within a poultry house.  Surfaces tested were concrete, wood chip type particleboard, and pressure treated wood. Insecticide resistance varied greatly between farms.   Mortality recorded at 2,24, and 48h for beetles exposed to Tempo SC Ultra^® was greater than for beetles exposed to the same surfaces treated with Vector Ban^®.  Mortality was similar between all surfaces tested within a compound.  We found high levels of recovery when examining the AI on filter paper when compared to the β-Cyfluthrin formulation, Tempo SC Ultra^®, on various surfaces.