CARBON-DIOXIDE AS A POTENTIAL FUMIGANT FOR TERMITE CONTROL

Formosan subterranean termites, Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki, were exposed to greater than or equal to 95% or 50% carbon dioxide atmospheres for intervals of 24-120 h at 26(+/- 3)degrees C. A 24-h exposure to greater than or equal to 95% carbon dioxide caused significant termite mortality, but 60 h were required for complete mortality. Exposure to 50% carbon dioxide for 60 h resulted in approximately 70% termite mortality, while complete mortality was recorded after 120 h. When termites were sealed in wooden blocks (90 x 90 x 152 mm), 72-96 h exposure to greater than or equal to 95% carbon dioxide was necessary for complete control. A limited study with Cryptotermes brevis (Walker) suggested that this drywood termite is also susceptible to carbon dioxide fumigation, although slightly longer exposures may be required than with C. formosanus. Carbon dioxide-modified atmospheres are a viable alternative to conventional fumigants for vault fumigation of termite-infested materials, and may also be applicable to larger-scale fumigations to control structural pests.