Factors influencing the efficacy of insecticidal gel baits against two peridomestic cockroaches

Abstract

The American cockroach and Turkestan cockroach are outdoor cockroach species that inhabit sewers, steam tunnels, utility boxes, irrigation boxes, mulch beds, compost piles, and basements, but can occasionally inhabit indoors in search of food and water. The management of such cockroaches has traditionally relied on insecticidal sprays. However, gel baits are a promising alternative management option because they use a low amount of active ingredients and can be applied to precise locations where cockroaches usually hide. We investigated the influence of competitive food on the efficacy of several gel baits against multiple life stages of the American and Turkestan cockroach, as differences among life stages can also affect bait effectiveness. We also utilized the Ebeling choice box, which simulates field performance using light and dark harborages to exploit the behavior of Turkestan cockroaches. Overall, our results demonstrate that insecticidal gel baits can effectively manage both American and Turkestan cockroaches. However, the presence of alternative food sources significantly reduced the efficacy of certain gel baits, particularly against American cockroaches. These findings contribute to a better understanding of bait-based management of two peridomestic cockroaches and provide valuable information for future studies on their biology, behavior, and control.