Progress 10/01/05 to 09/30/10
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Findings from this project are relevant to pest management professionals, growers, and homeowners. The results have been disseminated by various means: to the structural pest control industry through books,extension bulletins, articles in scientific journals and trade magazines, workshops, and pest control conferences; to growers through workshops, newsletters and popular journal articles; and to homeowners via Master Gardeners, phone call correspondence, and extension bulletins. KM AntPro in Nokomis Florida developed a bait delivery system based on this research that is now being used by various pest control companies, growers of various crops, municipal agencies, several overseas ventures, and the general public. PARTICIPANTS: The project was a collaborative effort with Dr. Michael Rust's laboratory. We worked closely with Mr. Ken Kupfer, an evironmental systems developer located in Nokomis, Florida. Funding provided partial support for Dr. Les Greenberg, a Research Specialist, Kris Tollerup, a doctoral student, and Paul Flores, a Staff Research Associate. TARGET AUDIENCES: The primary target of our efforts were Pest Management Professionals in the structural pest control industry. Secondary audiences included growers and homeowners. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Not relevant to this project.
Impacts
The current demand by the public and the pest control industry for greener more environmentally-friendly control techniques provided the impetus for this project. In a collaborative effort with Dr. Michael Rust's laboratory at UCR we developed several low-toxic ant bait delivery systems for use in urban and agricultural settings. Our studies in grape vineyards provided an alternative to the current use of broad-spectrum sprays, providing for a more sustainable crop production system. In the urban sector, we developed liquid baiting systems using low-toxic baits that significantly reduced Argentine ant populations around homes (the number one household pest in southern California). Our baiting systems provide users with an alternative to the more commonly used sprays that are not target-specific and when overused contribute to insecticide runoff.
Publications
- Klotz, J.H., M.K. Rust, L. Greenberg, and M.A. Robertson. 2010. Developing low risk management strategies for Argentine ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). Sociobiology 55: 779-785.
- Greenberg, L., M.K. Rust, J.H. Klotz, D. Haver, J.N. Kabashima, S. Bondarenko, and Jay Gan. 2010. Impact of ant control technologies on insecticide runoff and efficacy. Pest Management Science 66: 980-987.
- Klotz, J., L. Hansen, H. Field, M. Rust, D. Oi, and K. Kupfer. 2010. Urban pest management of ants. University of California DANR publication, 72 pp.
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Progress 01/01/08 to 12/31/08
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Further refinements of low-toxic baits and evaluation of their efficacy against ant pests in urban and agricultural settings continued in 2008. The primary focus was on developing sweetened liquid baits formulated with low concentrations of toxicants, which are delivered in large capacity bait stations to accommodate the large populations of Argentine ants that are typically found in southern California. The ultimate objective is to provide target-specific, environmentally-safe ant control not only for pest management professionals but for the general public as well. The results of this research have been presented at various workshops and conferences for pest management professionals throughout the country. PARTICIPANTS: Research collaborators on this project included: Dr. Michael Rust, Professor of Entomology, University of California, Riverside; Dr. Les Greenberg, Specialist in Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside; Herb Field, Chief Operating Officer, Lloyd Pest Control, San Diego, California; and Ken Kupfer, owner of KM AntPro LLC, Nokomis, Florida. TARGET AUDIENCES: The primary target audience is Pest Management Professionals in structural pest control. However, research on controlling ants with low-toxic baits will also benefit growers, pest control advisors, and homeowners. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
Research results have contributed to the development of several commercial ant baits and delivery systems in both urban and agricultural environments. These products provide an alternative to the broad-spectrum insecticides that are commonly broadcasted in the environment for ant control. These bait delivery systems are more target-specific, significantly reduce the amount of insecticide used, and have less negative impact on the environment. Efficacy studies have shown that baits can be just as effective as sprays in ant control, and potentially reduce insecticide runoff in the urban environment, and be compatible with biological control programs in agricultural environments.
Publications
- Klotz, J.H., M.K. Rust, H.C. Field, L. Greenberg, and K. Kupfer. 2008. Controlling Argentine ants in residential settings (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). Sociobiology 51: 579-588.
- Klotz, J.H., M.K. Rust, H.C. Field, L. Greenberg, and K. Kupfer. 2008. Urban pest management strategies for Argentine ants, pp. 58-60. In: Proceedings of the 2008 National Conference on Urban Entomology, May 18-21, Tulsa, OK.
- Field, H.C., and J.H. Klotz. 2008. Who's better at Argentine ant control Pest Control Technology 36: 76,78,80.
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Progress 01/01/07 to 12/31/07
Outputs
OUTPUTS: In collaboration with Dr. Michael Rust's laboratory we completed the second season of research evaluating several pest management strategies to control Argentine ants around homes in Riverside, California. The treatments included perimeter sprays, spot sprays, baiting, and a combination of a perimeter spray with granules broadcasted outside the spray zone. Most effective was the combination treatment (> 90% control over 8 weeks) consisting of fipronil spray with bifenthrin granules. A liquid bait delivery system with 0.001% imidacloprid achieved 80% control after one month, and the spot spray provided 60% control. Conducting surveys of homeowners, we determined that Pest Management Professionals have far greater success at controlling ants than the homeowners who attempt their own ant control. We surmise that this difference is due primarily to the superior products and strategies that are available to Pest Management Professionals. Our collaboration has also involved
integrating the urban studies with agricultural ant pest management. We completed studies in the Coachella Valley developing a low-toxic granular baiting system to control a major pest ant in table grape vineyards; and our ongoing research in citrus has been evaluating various liquid baiting systems for controlling Argentine ants. So far baits showing promise in the agricultural sector include liquid and granular formulations containing imidacloprid and borates.
PARTICIPANTS: Professional development of one graduate student: Dr. Kris Tollerup, who completed Ph.D. Defense in December 2007 on "Mass Releases of the Parasitoid, Anagyrus pseudococci (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) and Baits to Control the Field Ant, Formica perpilosa (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) to Manage the Vine Mealybug, Planococcus ficus (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) in Coachella Valley Vineyards."Research collaboration on spray strategy and bait delivery system development, and conducting surveys with: 1) Dr. Michael Rust, Professor of Entomology, University of California, Riverside 2) Ken Kupfer, KM AntPro LLC, Nokomis, Florida, and 3) Herb Field, Lloyd Pest Control, San Diego, California.
TARGET AUDIENCES: Pest Management Professionals in the structural pest control industry and growers and pest control advisors in citrus and viticulture.
Impacts
We have demonstrated the efficacy of several urban pest management strategies to control Argentine ants, and substantiated results through homeowner surveys. Two strategies are not only very effective but also significantly reduce the amount of insecticide used in the environment: namely, a spot spray directed at ant trails and a liquid bait delivery system using low concentrations of toxicant. A similar approach is being applied in agricultural settings where significant ant problems exist and low toxic methods are needed.
Publications
- Field, H. C., W. E. Evans, R. Hartley, L. D. Hansen, and J. H. Klotz. 2007. A survey of structural ant pests in the southwestern U.S.A. (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). Sociobiol. 49: 151-164.
- Klotz, J. H., M. K. Rust, L. Greenberg, H. C. Field, and K. Kupfer. 2007. An evaluation of several urban pest management strategies to control Argentine ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). Sociobiol. 50: 1-8.
- Klotz, J. H., L. D. Hansen, R. Pospischil, and M. K. Rust. 2008. In Press. Ants and Their Management in the Urban Environment. Cornell University Press, Ithaca, NY. 231 pp.
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Progress 01/01/06 to 12/31/06
Outputs
My research on low-toxic pest management of ants is continuing along with an ongoing investigation of anaphylactic reactions to animal bites and stings. Both projects are collaborative undertakings with: (1) Dr. Michael Rust's laboratory on ant control, and (2) Drs. Jacob Pinnas and Stephen Klotz on medical aspects of bites and stings. Below is a more detailed description of each project. (1) We evaluated a low-toxic liquid bait delivery system for Argentine ant control in organic citrus. The bait contained 1% disodium octaborate tetrahydrate and was formulated with sugar as a feeding attractant. It is commercially sold under the trade name of Gourmet. The bait station we tested, KM AntPro, is also commercially available. Based on the encouraging results from this study the bait has been registered in California for use in several organic crops. We found that the bait has an effect several hundred feet away from the station, which provides us with valuable information
for determining the number of units needed per acre. (2) We conducted an extensive literature review to identify anaphylactic (i.e. IgE-mediated) and anaphylactic-like (i.e. resembling anaphylaxis but mechanism unknown) reactions to animal bites and stings. We found a diverse group of animals that have been reported to cause anaphylactic and anaphylactic-like reactions to their bites and stings including: insects such as wasps, bees, ants, kissing bugs, bed bugs, several species of flies, caterpillars, and cocoons; other invertebrates include ticks, scorpions, centipedes, and jellyfish; and vertebrates, such as snakes, lizards, rodents, and a primate. This summary is meant to heighten awareness on the diversity of animals that may cause anaphylaxis, hopefully leading to more rapid diagnosis and treatment of this dangerous condition.
Impacts
Organic growers now have a means of reducing Argentine ant populations in citrus, which is especially significant considering the limited options for ant control available to them. Compared to ant control with contact insecticides, the bait delivery system uses less insecticide and is more target-specific, reducing environmental contamination. It is also amenable to biological control programs. Unlike broadcast sprays of insecticides the bait delivery system has negligible collateral damage to other organisms. Hymenoptera stings are one of the most common causes of anaphylaxis. Anaphylactic reactions to bites and stings of other arthropods are less common, and even fewer have been reported for non-arthropod groups. Taken together these organisms pose a significant medical risk. A potentially life-saving plan is to direct patients to proper follow-up care to prevent a future life-threatening reaction, including: prescribing epinephrine and antihistamines with proper
instructions for their use, referral to an allergist to determine if skin testing, RAST and immunotherapy are indicated and reporting the case to State or local Poison Control Centers. In some cases it may be helpful to consult an entomologist or a pest control service for help in identification and elimination of certain offenders.
Publications
- Greenberg, L., J.H. Klotz, and M.K. Rust. 2006. Liquid bait for control of the Argentine ant, Linepithema humile, in organic citrus (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). Florida Entomol. 89: 469-474.
- Klotz, J.H., J.L. Pinnas, and S.A. Klotz. 2006. Animal bites and stings with anaphylactic potential. J. Emer. Med. In press.
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Progress 01/01/05 to 12/31/05
Outputs
My research on the biology and control of pest ants in urban and agricultural environments is both basic and applied. In basic research, I made a comprehensive review of the medical and entomological literature to show the importance of ant species other than imported fire ants in causing adverse medical reactions to bites and stings. All of these cases represented severe allergic reactions including some with anaphylactic shock and death. I also provided several new case histories of allergic reactions to species of ants not previously reported in the literature. In all, there are now ten different genera representing six subfamilies of ants that have been documented to cause allergic reactions. This research will alert physicians to the potential medical problem with species of ants other than imported fire ants that are becoming increasingly common with mankind's ongoing urbanization and globalization. My research on urban pest ants and their control culminated in
2005 with the publication of 'Carpenter Ants of the United States and Canada,' which summarizes the biology and control of the most important group of structural ant pests in this country. There are about 50 species of carpenter ants that are household pests in this country, and their behavior, ecology, life history, and economic impact are reviewed in this book. In the area of applied research, my laboratory, in collaboration with Dr. Michael Rust's, has continued to test new low-toxic bait delivery systems for controlling ants in urban and agricultural settings. Many of the methods we developed for urban ant control are now being tested in crops such as citrus and table and wine grapes. As a result of this research there is now an IPM ant group that meets annually to discuss strategies for controlling ants in agriculture. It is a consortium of University of California researchers, federal and state IR-4 representatives, chemical company representatives, and pest control
entrepreneurs, all working to develop low-toxic methods of ant control in California agriculture.
Impacts
My research on stinging ants is meant to heighten awareness of the diversity of species that may cause allergic reactions, hopefully leading to more rapid diagnosis and treatment of this dangerous and potentially life-threatening condition. As these ants expand their habitat due to ever-increasing urbanization and globalization more people can be expected to encounter them. My research on bait delivery systems for ants in agriculture will minimize disruption of biological control and prevent contamination of crops with insecticide, thereby providing a more sustainable and environmentally sound approach to controlling homopteran pests. The slow-acting toxic baits can be distributed to the entire colony, providing longer-term control, and when delivered in stations are less likely to contaminate crops or the environment. Contamination is negligible because the ants consume the bait and carry it to the nest, exchanging it by trophallaxis. The bait is not broadcast;
rather the ants are removing it from a safe enclosed structure, and transporting and feeding it to the other colony members. Our collaboration with IR-4 will expedite implementation of these low-toxic methods into California agriculture.
Publications
- Klotz, J. H., R. D. deShazo, J. L. Pinnas, A. M. Frishman, J. O. Schmidt, D. R. Suiter, G. W. Price, and S. A. Klotz. 2005. Adverse Reactions to Ants Other Than Imported Fire Ants. Ann. Allergy Asthma Immunol. 95: 418-425.
- Hansen, L. D. and J. H. Klotz. 2005. Carpenter Ants of the United States and Canada. Cornell University Press, Ithaca. 204 pp.
- Costa, S. H., L. Greenberg, J. Klotz, M. K. Rust. 2005. Response of Argentine Ants and Red Imported Fire Ants to Permethrin-Impregnated Plastic Strips: Foraging Rates, Colonization of Potted Soil, and Differential Mortality. J. Econ. Entomol. 98: 2089-2094.
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Progress 01/01/04 to 12/31/04
Outputs
My laboratory has made significant progress in the development and implementation of bait delivery systems for controlling ants in agricultural and urban environments. In citrus field tests, for example, we evaluated various liquid baits and bait stations to control Argentine ants. Our results demonstrated the efficacy of low-toxic sucrose water baits delivered in high capacity bait stations. We used an ultra low concentration of thiamethoxam (0.0001%) in 25% sucrose water delivered in two types of bait stations: 1) a commercially available 500 ml bait station (KM AntPro), and 2) a one-liter polyvinyl chloride pipe station that we designed. Using these bait delivery systems we reduced the ant numbers significantly. This same strategy can be used in urban settings to achieve similar results with Argentine ants. In collaboration with Dr. Michael Rust's laboratory, we have determined the optimal concentration of various toxicants to incorporate into liquid baits for
Argentine ant control. One in particular, boric acid, has been a major focus of my research, and will be field-tested on a large scale in citrus in the 2005-growing season. Our goal is to provide organic citrus growers with a bait delivery system that they too can use for Argentine ant control. Also in collaboration with Dr. Rust's laboratory, we have developed baits for ant control in table grape vineyards. In this case, however, the pest is a field ant, Formica perpilosa, which is a native species to the Coachella Valley that tends the destructive vine mealybug. To control this ant we are using granular baits, which are delivered in a commercial bait station (Kness). My graduate student, Kris Tollerup, is working toward his Ph.D. on this project and is developing control strategies; bait application rates; and investigating the foraging and orientation behavior of this species. The table grape growers in the Coachella Valley support this research and are looking forward to
eventually using baits to control ants. In addition to my research on baits, I have begun a new line of research on ants of medical importance to urban dwellers. Along with imported fire ants, there are a number of other species such as harvester ants and native fire ants that can cause allergic reactions in people that are sensitized to their sting. It is therefore critical that this information be made available to physicians and susceptible individuals so that they will be aware of this potential problem.
Impacts
We are developing control strategies that will profoundly change the way both growers and urban pest management professionals approach ant problems. Our methods significantly reduce pesticide use and environmental contamination, by being less toxic and more target-specific than traditional means using sprays. We have been working with IR-4 representative, Keith Dorschner at Rutgers University, to obtain registration of this new bait technology to be used in agriculture, and under his auspices several bait stations have been cleared by the Environmental Protection Agency for agricultural use. Our regional IR-4 representative in California, Steve Flanagan, is currently pursuing state approval for this technology to he used in agriculture. As for the medically important ant species, public awareness will help further the prevention and treatment of allergic reactions in persons sensitive to their stings. In some cases, stinging incidents can be life threatening, so it is
critical that we educate the public and physicians to these potential dangers.
Publications
- Rust, M. K., D. A. Reierson, and J. H. Klotz. 2004. Delayed toxicity as a critical factor in the efficacy of aqueous baits for controlling Argentine ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). J. Econ. Entomol. 97: 1017-1024.
- Klotz, J. H., M. K. Rust, and P. Phillips. 2004. Liquid bait delivery systems for controlling Argentine ants in citrus groves (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). Sociobiol. 43: 419-427.
- Tollerup, K. E., M. K. Rust, K. W. Dorschner, P. A. Phillips, and J. H. Klotz. 2004. Low-toxicity baits control ants in citrus orchards and grape vineyards. Calif. Agric. 58: 213-217.
- Klotz, J. H., J. O. Schmidt, J. L. Pinnas, and S. A. Klotz. 2004. Consequences of harvester ant incursion into urbanized areas: a case history of sting anaphylaxis. Sociobiol. In press.
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Progress 01/01/03 to 12/31/03
Outputs
My laboratory has made considerable progress in the technology transfer of urban ant control to the agricultural sector. We are focusing on controlling ants in two economically important crops in southern California, citrus and table grapes. The two species of ants that are pests in these crops are Linepithema humile and Formica perpilosa, respectively. In large-scale efficacy trials, we achieved significant reductions of pest ant populations in both cropping systems. For example, in citrus groves we were able to reduce the numbers of ants by greater than 50% and maintain this level of control over the entire growing season plus a carry-over into the following year. The baits we have used consist of 25% sucrose water with fipronil, imidacloprid, or thiamethoxam as active ingredients at ultra-low concentrations. In collaboration with Dr. Michael Rust's laboratory, we continue to screen new active ingredients for ant baits, as well as design and test new bait delivery
systems that are economical and practical for growers to use. We conducted a cost analysis of the use of ant baits in citrus and found that during the growing season it would cost growers about $20.00/acre/month for labor and materials. However, this is a worst-case scenario as the labor costs over the fall and winter months would be negligible as the ants are not as active during these seasons. In addition, the servicing of stations could be considerably streamlined with an all terrain vehicle equipped with a 25 gallon spray tank for refilling stations, and once baits become available for ant control in citrus, bait formulation would no longer be necessary. In table grape vineyards we integrated ant control with a biological control program for vine mealybugs. In collaboration with FAR Insectary, we made augmentative releases of the parasitic wasp Anagyrus. Currently, growers are using contact and systemic insecticides to control ants and mealybugs, so our goal is to provide them
with control measures that reduce pesticide use and are more target-specific.
Impacts
We are developing alternative strategies for ant control in the urban and agricultural environment that significantly reduce pesticide use and environmental contamination of the urban environment, agricultural crops and beneficial organisms. Additionally, we are providing methods that indirectly provide control of major homopteran pests in urban landscapes and agriculture, such as mealybugs, scales, and whiteflies. By reducing the ant problems in an environmentally safe manner, we allow biological control to play its role in pest management. In the long run ant bait delivery systems offer a more sustainable approach to pest control that will avoid resistance problems while reducing environmental impact.
Publications
- Rust, M. K., D. A. Reierson, and J. H. Klotz. 2003. Pest Management of Argentine Ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). J. Entomol. Sci. 38: 159-169.
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Progress 01/01/02 to 12/31/02
Outputs
The development and testing of low-toxic ant baits in agricultural and urban environments has been the focus of my research in 2002. In collaboration with Dr. M. Rust, we have devised a series of laboratory and field techniques to develop effective ant baits. Our first step is to screen for attractants that will lure the ants into collecting the bait. Potential bait attractants are then formulated with various toxicants at different concentrations and tested for repellency. Lab tests are then conducted to determine lethal times of the baits at different concentrations of toxicant. Finally, the bait is tested in the field against heavy infestations of ants. For example, we have developed a highly attractive bait for a major pest ant in vineyards in the Coachella Valley, and have designed and tested an effective baiting program for Argentine ants in citrus groves. An important part of the program is also developing and testing delivery systems for these baits, both for
liquid and granular formulations. Along with Dr. Keith Dorschner with the IR-4 Program, we submitted a proposal to the Environmental Protection Agency to obtain non-food use classification for ant bait stations in grape vineyards and citrus groves. We received from EPA clearance for using several ant bait stations in all fruit, nut, and vine crops in the United States. The use of ant baits in these minor crops is a significant development for agricultural pest management that provides growers with an alternative to the contact insecticides that are currently being used in ant control. The use of baits in place of sprays will markedly reduce the amount of pesticide used in agriculture, and will also be less disruptive to biological control programs and the surrounding environment. With the insecticide enclosed in a bait station, the crop's exposure to insecticide becomes negligible. Our research in the urban sector has demonstrated that baits can be as effective as contact sprays for
ant control, with a considerable reduction in pesticide use. Another key group of pests in the agroecosystem that we are paying more attention to are the homopterans, which have a close association with the ants. The homopterans supply honeydew to the ants, and the ants protect the homopterans from predators and parasites. This mutualistic interaction results in population explosions of both pests. We are attempting to control the homopterans directly with biological control and indirectly by means of ant control. Ant baits will allow us to apply control measures that will not kill beneficial predators and parasites. Our goal is to provide integrated pest management of homopterans that combines low-toxic ant control with biological control. In addition to the field research, we have continued studies on the toxicity of boron. Many commercial ant baits use borates as an active ingredient, yet their mode of action is unknown. Our research suggests possible mechanisms that act at the
cellular and molecular level. We have found that certain additives to baits as well as the pH can affect its toxicity. This needs to be taken into consideration when baits are formulated with borates.
Impacts
Worldwide, ants are major economic pests in agricultural and urban environments. They interfere with the biological control of homopteran pests in many crops, and they are the number one household insect pest in the United States. To remedy this situation, we are developing more sustainable and environmentally safer approaches to ant control using baits. For example, to control ants in vineyards, growers are limited to using Lorsban, but drift and residual deposits of this insecticide on foliage can ruin a biological control program. Another disadvantage of this contact insecticide is that it only kills foraging ants, and not the reproductives or vast majority of workers in the nest. In contrast, toxic baits can potentially kill the entire colony. Furthermore, if the baits are delivered in stations, they will not interfere with biological control or contaminate the crop. For urban settings, we are developing more effective baits for ant control. The use of baits in
pest management will significantly reduce the amount of insecticide used by growers, homeowners, and pest management professionals.
Publications
- Jetter, K. M., J. Hamilton, and J. H. Klotz. 2002. Red imported fire ants threaten agriculture, wildlife and homes. Calif. Agric. 56: 26-34.
- Klotz, J. H., C. Amrhein, S. McDaniel, M. K. Rust, and D. A. Reierson. 2002. Assimilation and toxicity of boron in the Argentine ant (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). J. Entomol. Sci. 37: 193-199.
- Klotz, J. H., M. K. Rust, H. S. Costa, D. A. Reierson, and K. Kido. 2002. Strategies for controlling Argentine ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) with sprays and baits. J. Agric. Urban Entomol. In press.
- Rust, M. K., D. A. Reierson, and J. H. Klotz. 2002. Pest management of Argentine ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). J. Entomol. Sci. In press.
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Progress 01/01/01 to 12/31/01
Outputs
My research in collaboration with Dr. Michael Rust on the development of low-toxic baits for ant control is coming to fruition with our field evaluations in grape vineyards and citrus groves. In both of these agricultural settings, ants cause major problems by their cultivation and protection of homopteran pests. In laboratory research we identified several promising toxicants to incorporate in ant baits. In field tests we also found highly attractive foods to be used in the baits. We are now evaluating several baits formulated with these various toxicants and foods in citrus groves and grape vineyards. In the 2001 field tests in citrus, our bait applications reduced the number of Argentine ants by 50% throughout the six month duration of the test. Conducting similar field tests in vineyards with the field ant, Formica perpilosa, we determined that at certain times of the year the baits were more attractive to these ants, and therefore more effective. I have continued
my laboratory research on the assimilation and toxicity of boron baits and recently demonstrated the toxic effects of boron on the ant's gastrointestinal tract. In addition, I showed how formulation with respect to pH and certain additives changes the toxicity of boron baits. In a collaborative investigation of carpenter ants, we characterized the bacterial endosymbionts of several species. We also conducted phylogenetic analyses of the endosymbionts to determine their relatedness.
Impacts
Currently, grape and citrus growers can only use contact insecticides, such as chlorpyrifos, for ant control. These products have only limited effectiveness, however, and chlorpyrifos may soon be taken off the market. Baits offer a more effective alternative and are less toxic than broadcast applications of contact insecticides. We have made significant progress in demonstrating the efficacy of baits in agricultural settings. This preliminary research is necessary to lay the groundwork for future registration of baits for use against ants in agriculture. My studies on boron are critical for understanding its mode-of-action and how to formulate this important toxicant that is used in so many pest control products
Publications
- Costa, H.S., L. Greenberg, J. Klotz, and M.K. Rust. 2001. Monitoring the effects of granular insecticides for Argentine ant control in nursery settings. J. Agric. Urban Entomol. 18: 13-22.
- Peloquin, J.J., S.G. Miller, S.A. Klotz, R. Stouthamer, L.R. Davis, and J.H. Klotz. 2001. Bacterial Endosymbionts from the genus Camponotus (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). Sociobiology 38: 695-708.
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Progress 01/02/00 to 12/31/00
Outputs
My research program on ant control has expanded from an urban focus to include agricultural settings. The techniques we developed for finding and testing new ant baits for urban pest management are being adapted for use in citrus and grapes. We are evaluating low-toxic liquid baits and delivery systems for Argentine ant control in citrus groves. In vineyards, we designed and tested a spray-rig mounted on an all terrain vehicle. This sprayer was effective at killing ants and minimizing drift and crop exposure to insecticide. We also conducted preliminary tests of a low-toxic granular bait that looks promising as a replacement for insecticide sprays. In addition to applied research, we are investigating the toxicology of borates in order to better understand their mode of action. This basic research will provide information that will enable us to use borates more effectively in pest control.
Impacts
Our research on low-toxic baits for ant control in urban and agricultural environments is laying the groundwork for a safer, more environmentally sound pest management strategy. Our goal is to provide homeowners and growers with a better alternative to the broad spectrum contact insecticides they are currently using.
Publications
- Tripp, J.M., D.R. Suiter, G.W. Bennett, J.H. Klotz, and B.L. Reid. 2000. Evaluation of control measures for black carpenter ant (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). J. Econ. Entomol. 93: 1493 1497.
- Greenberg, L., and J.H. Klotz. 2000. Argentine ant trail pheromone enhances consumption of liquid sucrose solution (Hymenoptera: Formicidae).J. Econ. Entomol. 93: 119-122.
- Tripp, J.M., D.R. Suiter, G.W. Bennett, and J.H. Klotz. 2000. Lincoln index derived forager population estimates in the black carpenter ant, CAMPONOTUS PENNSYLVANICUS (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). Sociobiol. 35:109-118.
- Klotz, J.H., L. Greenberg, C. Amrhein, and M.K. Rust. 2000. Toxicity and repellency of borate-sucrose water baits to Argentine ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). J. Econ. Entomol. 93: 1256-1258.
- Klotz, J.H., B.L. Reid, and J. Hamilton. 2000. Locomotory efficiency in ants using structural guidelines (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). Sociobiol. 35:79-88.
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Progress 01/01/99 to 12/31/99
Outputs
In our research on ant control we have demonstrated the effectiveness of (1) a low-toxic boric acid liquid bait, and (2) the delivery of granular baits in containerized stations. Furthermore we combined these 2 (the liquid bait plus granules in bait stations) in a baiting strategy and compared it with a spray treatment for control of Argentine ants around homes in Riverside and Moreno Valley. The results of this project showed that baiting was as effective as spraying, however, baits take a longer time to attain control. In addition, we are continuing our basic research on ant behavior which will have important implications for control. Our research on the trailing and foraging behavior of ants has yielded new insights into their orientation and yielded new techniques for estimating their population size. This knowledge can be used by the pest control industry to pin-point chemical applications and to develop techniques for monitoring.
Impacts
Presently, pest control operators rely on broad-spectrum contact insecticides for Argentine ant control. Our research on alternative treatment strategies using bait technology demonstrates the potential for a more target-specific approach, which will significantly reduce the amount of pesticide used. This project offers a more environmentally sound approach to ant control than is currently being practiced.
Publications
- Klotz, J.H., B.L. Reid, and J. Hamilton. 2000. Locomotory efficiency in ants using structural guidelines (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). Sociobiol. 35:79-88.
- Greenberg, L., and J.H. Klotz. 2000. Argentine ant trail pheromone enhances consumption of liquid sucrose solution Hymenoptera: Formicidae).J. Econ. Entomol. 93: 119-122.
- Tripp, J.M., D.R. Suiter, G.W. Bennett, and J.H. Klotz. 2000. Lincoln index derived forager population estimates in the black carpenter ant, Camponotus pennsylvanicus (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). Sociobiol. 35:109-118.
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Progress 01/01/98 to 12/01/98
Outputs
We field tested two granular baits for Argentine ant control around fire department stations and water substations in Huntington Beach, California. In addition to determining the efficacy of these baits, we compared a broadcast application of baits with their delivery in containerized stations. To evaluate the baits we monitored population levels of ants before and after treatments. To accomplish this, we developed a new monitoring technique based on consumption of a liquid bait. We also tested sticky barriers on trees to see if by cutting off the ants' natural resources we could enhance their bait consumption, and thereby speedup their control. We conducted discrimination tests to find the optimal concentration of active ingredient to incorporate in a bait. All of these experiments are critical to our future development of an integrated pest management (IPM) approach to ant control.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- KLOTZ, J.H., GREENBERG, L., and VENN, E.C. 1998. Liquid boric acid bait for control of the Argentine ant (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). J. Econ. Entomol. 91(4):910-914.
- KLOTZ, J. H., GREENBERG, L., REID, B.L. and DAVIS, L. 1998. Spatial distribution of colonies of three carpenter ants, CAMPONOTUS PENNSYLVANICUS, CAMPONOTUS FLORIDANUS,.
- CAMPONOTUS LAEVIGATUS (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). Sociobiol.
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Progress 01/01/97 to 12/01/97
Outputs
We have made considerable progress in the development and testing of a low-toxic liquid bait for Argentine ants. In laboratory studies we have refined the food component of the bait and added the Argentine ant's trail pheromone to make it more attractive to the ants. We determined the dosage response of Argentine ants to boric acid in sugar water and based on this work determined the optimal concentration for efficacy. We designed a liquid bait delivery system and field tested the bait at the Huntington Beach Water Production Facility, which had a heavy infestation of Argentine ants. The plant is a 7 acre plot, with three large buildings. Within the first day of our baiting program, employee complaints about ants in the building ceased. After 10 weeks we had reduced the ant population outside by >75%. We completed a project in the San Bernardino Mountains where we studied the nesting behavior of carpenter ants. We mapped the spatial distribution of nests and
determined their relatedness by aggression tests. We compared these results with those from two other important carpenter ant pests, one found in the Midwest and the other in Florida. We continue to study the orientation and foraging behavior of various economically important ant species.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- KLOTZ, J.H., GREENBERG, L., SHOREY, H.H. and WILLIAMS, D.F. 1997. Alternative control strategies for ants around homes. J. Agric.
- KLOTZ, J. H., REID, B.L. and WILLIAMS, D.F. 1997. Laboratory and field techniques for development and evaluation of a bait for urban ant pests. Recent Res. Devel. in Entomol. 1: 83-92.
- KLOTZ, J. H., VAN ZANDT, L.L., REID, B.L. and BENNETT, G.W. 1997. Evidence lacking for magnetic compass orientation in fire ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). J. Kan. Entomol. 70 (1): 64-65.
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Progress 01/01/96 to 12/30/96
Outputs
We continue to make progress in our research and development of an effective, environmentally acceptable, low toxicity bait for the control of urban pest ants. Our bait is safe, and easy to formulate. It consists of a low concentration of boric acid (0.25 percent), sugar (10 percent) and water. We have shown it to be effective against carpenter ants, fire ants, ghost ants, Pharaoh ants, and Argentine ants. In addition to our continued evaluation of the bait, we have conducted research and development of a liquid bait delivery system. In contrast to current insecticidal bait formulations, our bait differs principally by its being a liquid bait. This is advantageous to delivering insecticides to insects that do not ingest solid food like ants. Also, it has an additional advantage of being attractive in environments where water availability is limiting. Thus, this bait formulation improves on current insecticidal bait technology by incorporating a universally attractive
food source (sugar) in a low toxicity liquid bait. Recently, our bait and delivery system was used successfully in a structural integrated pest management program at NASA Ames Research Center at Moffett Field in northern California.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- KLOTZ, J. H., VAIL, K.M. and WILLIAMS, D.F. 1996. Liquid boric acid bait for control of structural infestations of Pharaoh ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). J.Econ. Entomol. In press.
- KLOTZ, J. H., VAIL, K.M. and WILLIAMS, D.F. 1996. Toxicity of a boric acid sucrose water bait to SOLENOPSIS INVICTA (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). J. Econ. Entomol. In press.
- KLOTZ, J.H., VAN ZANDT, L. L., REID, B.L. and BENNETT, G.W. 1996. Evidence lacking for magnetic compass orientation in fire ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae).J. Kan. Entomol. In press.
- KLOTZ, J. H., GREENBERG, L., SHOREY, H.H. and WILLIAMS, D.F. 1996. Alternative control strategies for ants around homes. J. Agric. Entomol. In press.
- KLOTZ, J. H., REID, B.L. and KLOTZ, S.A. 1996. Trailing the elusive carpenter ant: a key to its control. Am. Entomol. 42: 33-39.
- KLOTZ, J.H. and MOSS, J.I. 1996. Oral toxicity of a boric acid -sucrose water bait to Florida, Carpenter Ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). J. Entomol. Sci. 31: 9-12.
- KLOTZ, J.H., OI, D. H., VAIL, K.M. and WILLIAMS, D.F. 1996. Laboratory evaluationof a boric acid liquid bait on colonies of TAPINOMA MELANOCEPHALUM, Argentine ants and Pharaoh ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). J. Econ. Entomol. 89: 673-677.
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