Evaluating the Efficacy of Arnica Extract-Based Termiticide from Berkem Biosolutions® in Subterranean Termite Control: A Comprehensive Laboratory and Four-Year Field Study

Subterranean termites pose significant threats to wooden structures. This study evaluated the efficacy of a bio-based termiticide product containing Arnica extract from Berkem Biosolutions® in controlling subterranean termites in both laboratory and field conditions. The laboratory assessments utilised “the Bottle H” test unit, adhering to the Japan Wood Preservation Association (JWPA) standard JWPAS-TS-(1) 2018 with Coptotermes gestroi as the test species. The results showed that there was no termite penetration in all treated-soil test units, indicating that the product demonstrated good soil-barrier protection in preventing the penetration of subterranean termite C. gestroi. Moreover, it exhibited high lethal efficacy, resulting in 100% termite mortality in all treated units. The field assessment was conducted using a simulation test unit, in which the treated soil surface was covered with a concrete slab (dimension of 63 x 63 x 10 cm) and a PVC pipe (10 cm in diameter and height) with a cover was put in the middle of it. A wood bait (rubberwood, dimension 5 x 5 x 10 cm) is placed inside the PVC pipe to indicate termite presence/attack to pass the treated soil barrier. Installed in January 2021, the assessment data were collected for four years (ongoing observation). Subterranean termite species such as Coptotermes sp., Macrotermes gilvus, Microtermes sp., and Odontotermes sp. were present around the testing area. Observations indicated that the treated soil maintained high resistance against termite penetration throughout the testing period. This comprehensive evaluation underscores the potential of bio-based termiticides in sustainable termite management, highlighting their effectiveness in both controlled and natural environments.