Potential use of pathogenic fungi in baits to control the Formosan subterranean termite (Isopt., Rhinotermitidae)

• DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0418.1995.tb01313.x
• Publication Date: 2009-08-26T19:00:05Z
• Authors: K. M. Delate; J. K. Grace; C. H. M. Tome
• Keywords: Coptotermes; Bassiana; Nuisance

Abstract A laboratory choice test was developed to assess the efficacy and acceptability of sporulating strains Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo) Vuillemin Metarhizium anisopliae (Metsch.) Sorokin foraging Formosan subterranean termites, Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki. Filter paper disks were saturated with agar media inoculated either B. strain 787 or 3041, M. 346, 472 2162. papers containing eight‐day‐old cultures rolled into cylinders culture on inside cylinder, placed in one two plastic jars, connected by a glass tube. Termites other jar (refugia), allowed forage throughout both jars. This apparatus simulates use fungal bait for termite control field. did not avoid contact baits, fed upon agar‐treated filter papers. Exposure 346 2162 resulted rapid mortality while exposure caused slower, but escalating, mortality. Efficacy fungi affected degree sterility tunnelling medium. Living entomopathogenic hold promise further development as baits control.