Mortality develops slower than that induced by metaldehyde formulations. The labeled application rate is 3 to 4 times higher than that for metaldehyde mini pellets. Metaldehyde is available in various baits. These include meal formulations, large pellets, and mini-pellets. Good quality meals may give fast plant protection due to the good coverage, but they do not last more than one week.
Rainfall quickly reduces the effectiveness by dissipating the active ingredient from the carrier.
They are also very palatable to slugs. Recent research has shown that metaldehyde has a different mode of action than previously thought. It does not dehydrate , but destroys the mucus producing system unique to slugs, which severely reduces mobility and digestion. Wet, rainy conditions, therefore, do not reverse the toxic effect of metaldehyde as was once thought. Under wet conditions, poor results may follow from low quality baits and low levels of active ingredient in the bait.