Cockroach Bait

Technology Description:

ARS researchers and collaborators have developed a flowable, hydrodynamic cockroach bait designed to absorb and release moisture at key times during cockroach feeding cycles. Under conditions of high air moisture, the bait absorbs water, and then releases it as temperature rises and ambient moisture levels drop. The bait continually charges and discharges moisture – a necessity for arthropod survival, since they have an increased need for food and a good moisture source. It contains several key food components, that when combined with a toxicant, it is highly attractive to even well-fed cockroaches. Because it is flowable, it can be delivered from a syringe or tube. Alternative ways of using this matrix include a non-toxic version that can be used as an attractant for any sticky trap or live trap device. Also, because the matrix is so hydrodynamic, it may be a good mix with biological control agents that commonly have high moisture requirements (such as nematodes). This bait is superior to commercial baits in terms of hydrodynamics and attractancy.

Professional pest control companies likely benefit from this technology. Companies that manufacture biocides, insecticides and pesticides could develop this invention for commercial use.

Please refer to Patent Number 5,968,540, "Hydrodynamic Flowable Cockroach Bait," which issued on October 18, 1999.