Method for preparing an optimum density termite bait composition
A composition in compacted form for use for termite monitoring and control comprises a cellulose material which may be purified cellulose or micro-crystalline cellulose as a base bait, the composition being compacted to an optimum density of not less than approximately 1.033 g/cc. Also disclosed is a method for monitoring and controlling termite infestations which comprises the steps of a) preparing such a composition; b) placing the composition in a bait station; c) monitoring the station at periodic time intervals for termites; and d) upon observing termite infestation in the bait station, replacing the above composition with a bait composition containing a termite killing agent.
1. A method for preparing an extruded composition for use for termite monitoring and control, the method comprising extruding a composition comprising a cellulose material and an active ingredient for killing or controlling termites to a density of not less than 1.033 g/cc.
2. A method as set forth in claim 1 wherein said cellulose material is purified cellulose.
3. A method as set forth in claim 1 wherein said cellulose material is micro-crystalline cellulose.
4. A method as set forth in claim 1 wherein said active ingredient for killing or controlling termites is selected from the group consisting of chitin synthesis inhibitors, juvenile hormone mimics, stomach toxicants, contact insecticides and mixtures thereof.
5. A method as set forth in claim 4 wherein said synthesis inhibitor is selected from the group consisting of hexaflumuron, flufenoxuron, lufenurin, and dimilin.
6. A method as set forth in claim 1 wherein said active ingredient for killing or controlling termites is present in the extruded composition in a concentration from 0.01% to 10% by weight.
7. A method as set forth in claim 1 wherein said extruded composition additionally contains a termite attractant and/or pheromone.
8. A method as set forth in claim 1 wherein said extruded composition has a density of 1.196 g/cc.
9. A method for controlling termite infestations comprising the steps of:
(a) compacting a composition comprising a cellulose material and an active ingredient for killing or controlling termites by extrusion to a density of not less than 1.033 g/cc; and
(b) placing said extruded composition in a bait station.
10. A method as set forth in claim 9 wherein said cellulose material is purified cellulose.
11. A method as set forth in claim 9 wherein said cellulose material is micro-crystalline cellulose.
12. A method as set forth in claim 9 wherein said active ingredient is selected from the group consisting of chitin synthesis inhibitors, juvenile hormone mimics, stomach toxicants, contact insecticides and mixtures thereof.
13. A method as set forth in claim 12 wherein said synthesis inhibitor is selected from the group consisting of hexaflumuron, flufenoxuron, lufenurin, and dimilin.
14. A method as set forth in claim 9 wherein said active ingredient for killing or controlling termites is present in the extruded composition in a concentration from 0.01% to 10% by weight.
15. A method as set forth in claim 9 wherein said extruded composition additionally contains a termite attractant and/or pheromone.
16. A method as set forth in claim 9 wherein said extruded composition has a density of 1.196 g/cc.