Termite baiting stations are a popular control method against termites, because they are able to kill entire colonies in a fairly short period of time. There are two main types of baits used in these systems, and in this article, we’re going to take a look at them.
Chitin inhibitors
Hexaflumuron ( Hex Pro, Sentricon), Terminate and Diflubensuron (Advance) are all chemicals that belong to the chitin inhibitor class. Chitin inhibitors prevent immature termites from molting, which will cause them to die early. This has a gradual effect on the colony. As the older, more mature worker termites pass away, they cannot be replaced. Because the worker termites are the ones that nourish and feed the colony, the entire colony is affected, and the colony will soon collapse without them.
The hormone chitin, which is secreted by immature worker termites, allows them to shed their outer skin (exoskeleton). Termite baits like Shatter contain chitin inhibitors that stop termites from forming that exoskeleton. The termite’s social behavior is also disrupted by chitin inhibitors, with termites that are affected by chitin inhibitors developing a chalky white appearance. About 20% of colony workers are immature, which means that 20% of the colony can be killed off using these inhibitors, and that’s enough to destroy it.
Metabolic growth inhibitors
Sulfluramid, and Sodium Borates come from a group of chemicals called Metabolic Inhibitors. The MIs prevent termites from converting food into energy, which causes them to slowly starve after they have been poisoned. MIs will usually kill a termite after 60 to 90 days.
Sulflurimid, a slow-acting poison, is believed to kill the protozoa living in the termites’ guts. The wood consumed by termites is converted into sugar by the tiny protozoa. After the protozoa have died, the poisoned worker will soon die as well.
The potential effect of MIs on termite colonies can be much greater than that of chitin inhibitors, because they are able to kill any termite that consumes them.
Are you having termite problems?
If you are having a termite infestation in your home, a baiting system is a great solution. Not only does it remove the active infestation, it also provides long term protection against reinfestation by killing any termite colonies near your property. If you would like to know more about baiting systems, or if you have an infestation that you need to remove from your home, contact us today.
