Microcerotermes diversus (Silvestri) is the most economically damaging termite species in structures in southwest, Iran. One safe control strategy that may reduce the subterranean termite damage in buildings is the use of IGRs in a suitable bait matrix. The effects of two juvenile hormone analogues, Admiral (Pyriproxyfen ) and Farox on M. diversus were evaluated over a range of concentrations ( 10-5000 ppm). Admiral and Farox induced nymph-presoldier intercastes and incomplete ecdysis in nymphs of M. diversus under two-choice and no-choice feeding tests. These assays determined concentrations of Admiral and Farox to be used in bait formulation. Differentiation of nymphs into intercastes may cause disruption of the caste balances in M. diversus, leading to the collapse of the colony.

Download document (165 kb)
free for the members of IRG. Available if purchased.

Purchase this document