The toxicity of the synthetic pyrethroid permethrin (NRDC 143) to a range of wood destroying insects has been investigated. In tests using Hylotrupes bajulus, Anobium punctatum, Lyctus brunneus and Reticulitermes santonensis permethrin showed a similar order of toxicity to that of gamma-BHC. Although the toxicity of permethrin to adult Anobium punctatum was of the same order as that of gamma-BHC, the toxicity to larvae was rather lower. The implications of these results are discussed and it is concluded that, subject to further field evaluation, permethrin could provide an alternative to gamma-BHC and dieldrin in wood preservatives.

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