Elimination and reinvasion studies with Coptotermes formosanus (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae) in Louisiana.
Three Formosan subterranean termite, Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae), colonies located inside the 12.75-ha Louis Armstrong Park, New Orleans, were selected for elimination by using the chitin synthesis inhibitor hexaflumuron. Once eliminated, each vacated foraging territory was monitored for reinvasion by neighboring C. formosanus colonies, Reticulitermnes flavipes (Kollar) (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae) colonies, or both. Each selected colony was eliminated in approximately 3 mo by using baits containing hexaflumuron. Overall activity of each untreated colony in the park remained unchanged during the same period. New C. formosanus and R. flavipes activity was detected in two of the three vacated territories, and in both areas, within days of selected colony elimination. The third vacated territory was completely reoccupied by a new C. formosanus colony approximately 7 mo later. Mark-recapture studies and DNA fingerprinting confirmed the distinctness of the reinvaders from eliminated and neighboring colonies.
Messenger
Matthew T
MT
Department of Entomology and Nematology, Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center, University of Florida, 3205 College Ave., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314, USA. mmessenger@dow.com
Su
Nan-Yao
NY
Husseneder
Claudia
C
Grace
J Kenneth
JK
D000818:Animals; D001522:Behavior, Animal; D016172:DNA Fingerprinting; D007300:Insect Control; D007306:Insecticides / Q000008:administration & dosage; D020049:Isoptera / Q000235:genetics / Q000502:physiology*; D008145:Louisiana; D011156:Population Density
D007306:Insecticides