Versatility of baits containing noviflumuron for control of structural infestations of formosan subterranean termites (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae)

Four buildings (two high-rise condominiums, a single-family residential structure, and a trailer) in Broward and Miami-Dade Counties, Florida, infested with Formosan subterranean termites (FST, Coptotermes fomosanus Shiraki) were treated with baits containing 0.5% wt/wt noviflumuron. Each building represented a challenging treatment scenario for liquid termiticides due to the location of the infestation within the structure and/or occupant refusal to permit pesticide application in termite-infested living and activity areas. Marking of FST by in-situ baiting with blank bait matrix treated with 0.5% wt/wt Neutral Red dye indicated only one FST foraging population infested each building. Two FST infestations were aerial in high-rise condominiums. Noviflumuron baits were applied to two buildings in aboveground stations, one building with in-ground stations, and the remaining building with both station types. All detected FST infestations were eliminated within 71-92 days after first application of noviflumuron baits. FST foraging populations with confirmed ground contact consumed approximately 4-fold more bait than did aerial infestations; mean +/- SD, 242 +/- 74 g vs. 62 +/- 51 g, respectively. Termite feeding activity was monitored before, during, and after bait application at two buildings with an acoustic emissions detector (AED) and in one building with a microwave detector. Cessation of termite activity measured with these devices corresponded with elimination of live FST previously observed in stations, infested wood, and foraging tubes. No FST were observed in any monitoring station or building during the 12-18 month inspection period following elimination of the detected FST infestation.