Large-scale elimination of subterranean termite colonies of the genus Reticulitermes (Blattodea: Heterotermitidae) from town centers in Spain.

Abstract

Reticulitermes grassei Clément and R. banyulensis Clément are native termites of the Iberian Peninsula and are considered harmful pests in several places. Subterranean termites cause severe damage to wooden structures around the world. In Spain, wood is used in traditional construction, and many town centers feature such architecture. The presence of these pests is often overlooked until the damage becomes considerable over a large area. Baiting with a chitin-synthesis inhibitor is the only option to eliminate all termite colonies over large areas. Here, data are assessed on the area-wide management of Reticulitermes species in 5 town centers in Spain, after implementing a bait system with 0.5% hexaflumuron for 5 years. Our protocol included an initial survey, treatment with hexaflumuron baits, and a post-bait monitoring program. Our results showed that all detectable termite colonies affecting urban areas of 23,000-170,500 m2 were eliminated using the protocol described. This was achieved with a minimal amount of hexaflumuron (58 and 190 g), in less than 1 year on average (7-16 months) in warm dry southern and damp northern areas. The number of stations used ranged from 509 to 1,417 for each treatment area, of which 7.83% and 39% had termite activity. Following the treatments, termite activity has been absent in treated areas for more than 10 years. Our studies confirmed that it is possible to eliminate subterranean termite populations of the genus Reticulitermes from large areas in Europe using hexaflumuron baits and achieving long-term termite-free zones is feasible.