To do this, they carefully studied the termite's foraging behavior, feeding preferences, and nutritional needs for growth and reproduction. Early on, they looked to nature for clues. In decaying wood, for example, they found natural substances that foraging termites readily consume and carry to their queen to help with her egg-laying. After identifying the substances, the researchers combined them into feeding stimulants. They then mixed the stimulants with ground plant fiber, water and other ingredients that maintain proper texture and moisture.
Standard baits employ wooden stakes and cardboard or paper as carriers for the toxins.
This results in more toxin getting spread quickly to more colony members, says Rojas, at the ARS' center's Formosan Subterranean Termite Research Unit. In lab trials there, the bait required less pesticide than standard products and triggered quicker termite feeding. By six weeks, such feeding had killed off much of the colony. The scientists used both experimental and commercially registered pesticides, including diflubenzuron and hexaflumuron. Field studies conducted at New Orleans City Park confirmed the scientists' lab findings.