ARS | Publication request: Biological Control Approaches and Formulations for Formosan Subterranean Termite Management

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: October 20, 2006
Publication Date: October 27, 2006
Citation: Lyn, M.E., Wright, M.S., Cornelius, M.L., Williams, K.A., Duplantis, B.H., Duplessis, L.M. 2006. Biological Control Approaches and Formulations for Formosan Subterranean Termite Management (abstract). Mississippi Entomological Association Annual Conference.

Technical Abstract: The exotic Formosan subterranean termite (FST) pest currently infests 11 states within the United States. Pest management, property damage and repair costs combined is estimated to be over $1 billion annually. As part of the national Operation Full Stop campaign, USDA-ARS is exploring several biological control approaches to reduce FST numbers and colonies to mitigate costs and destructive effects. Findings from two different FST management approaches are presented. One approach is formulation development of a baiting system based on the white rot fungi Marasmiellus troyanus. The second is mass cultivation of the topically acting, entomopathogenic fungus, Metarhizium anisopliae. Efficacy results from field and lab bioassays are presented.