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Nov. 24, 2008 10:03 AM


Modern termiticides have provided homeowners with long-term control of subterranean termites since the mid 1940s. The safety and effectiveness of these materials have increased with the introduction of new types of chemicals, and new application equipment. All termiticides are evaluated by the U.S. Forest Service, and must be proven effective for at least five years before being approved and available for use. But the products used by professionals last 2-3 times longer than minimum requirements. New control methods are always being considered, and some may be a part of future termite control strategies. Advances in research have opened possibilities for both chemical and non-chemical methods. Below are possibilities for the future.

Most termite species rely on microorganisms in their gut to help them digest the wood they eat. Without these organisms, termites would not get nutrients and energy, and would die. This important relationship between microbes and termites might be the basis of a control strategy. If termites in a colony could be fed something that killed the microbes in their gut, the workers would soon die and the colony would be eliminated.

Termites depend on chemicals called pheromones to remain organized in a colony, to recognize nestmates, and to mark trails between a food source and the nest. The chemical structure of some termite pheromones has been determined, and might be used in a control strategy. For example, artificial trail pheromone might be used to direct foraging workers away from structures.

The genetics of termites around the world have been investigated, primarily for identifying species. The technology of termite genetics may be useful in finding new control strategies. Surely there is some characteristic linked to a gene sequence that might be used to control these insects, such as a gene for small mandibles that makes eating difficult.

Reference: Termiticide Efficacy Results: 2006 [USDA-Forest Service] Termiticide Report. 2007. T. Wegner, T. Shelton, C. F. Peterson, and J. Mulrooney. Pest Control Magazine (February): 58-69.