EFFICACY OF FORMULATED BAITS FOR CONTROL OF ARGENTINE ANT (HYMENOPTERA, FORMICIDAE)

We developed a laboratory method to determine the potential efficacy of baits formulated for control of the Argentine ant, Iridomyrmex humilis (Mayr). Possible effects as insect growth regulators were not examined. Of the 10 formulated baits tested, only mirex applied to granulated silkworm pupae had delayed toxicity. Hydramethylnon applied to granulated silkworm pupae also provided excellent kill of workers but did not exhibit delayed toxicity. In field tests, this bait provided faster control than did a chemical barrier of granular diazinon.