Insects

Research

Jump to: Review, Other

62 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Resistance of Particleboards Made from Fast-Growing Wood Species to Subterranean Termite Attack

by Dede Hermawan, Yusuf S. Hadi, Esi. Fajriani, Muhamad Y. Massijaya and Nurwati Hadjib

Insects 2012, 3(2), 532-537; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects3020532 - 29 May 2012

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 5950

Abstract

Laboratory-made particleboards were tested for their resistance to subterranean termite, Coptotermes curvignathus Holmgren (Order Isoptera, Family Termitidae) by Indonesian standard SNI 01.7207–2006, during four weeks and at the end of the test their mass loss percentage and feeding rate were determined. Particleboards consisted [...] Read more.

Laboratory-made particleboards were tested for their resistance to subterranean termite, Coptotermes curvignathus Holmgren (Order Isoptera, Family Termitidae) by Indonesian standard SNI 01.7207–2006, during four weeks and at the end of the test their mass loss percentage and feeding rate were determined. Particleboards consisted of: jabon (Anthocephalus cadamba, Family Rubiacea) with a density of 0.41 g/cm³; sungkai (Peronema canescens, Family Verbenaceae) with a density of 0.46 g/cm³; mangium (Acacia mangium, Family Rhamnaceae) with a density of 0.60 g/cm³ separately and the three species mixture at a rate of 1:1:1. Densities of the boards were targetted at 0.60 g/cm³ and 0.80 g/cm³ by using 12% urea formaldehyde as binder with 2% paraffin as additive based on oven dry wood particle weight. The hand-formed mats and hot-pressing at 130 °C and 2.45 MPa for 10 min were applied. The results showed that particleboards density did not affect mass loss and feeding rate, but the particleboards made from higher density wood resulted in higher resistance to subterranean termite attack. The most resistant particleboards were made of magium, followed by sungkai, mixed species, and jabon. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Termite Management and Control - Special Issue Dedicated in Memory of Dr. Kunio Tsunoda)

129 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Termite-Susceptible Species of Wood for Inclusion as a Reference in Indonesian Standardized Laboratory Testing

by Arinana, Kunio Tsunoda, Elis N. Herliyana and Yusuf S. Hadi

Insects 2012, 3(2), 396-401; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects3020396 - 28 Mar 2012

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 6748

Abstract

Standardized laboratory testing of wood and wood-based products against subterranean termites in Indonesia (SNI 01.7207-2006) (SNI) has no requirement for the inclusion of a comparative reference species of wood (reference control). This is considered a weakness of the Indonesian standard. Consequently, a study [...] Read more.

Standardized laboratory testing of wood and wood-based products against subterranean termites in Indonesia (SNI 01.7207-2006) (SNI) has no requirement for the inclusion of a comparative reference species of wood (reference control). This is considered a weakness of the Indonesian standard. Consequently, a study was undertaken to identify a suitable Indonesian species of community wood that could be used as a reference control. Four candidate species of community woods: Acacia mangium, Hevea brasiliensis, Paraserianthes falcataria and Pinus merkusii were selected for testing their susceptibility to feeding by Coptotermes formosanus. Two testing methods (SNI and the Japanese standard method JIS K 1571-2004) were used to compare the susceptibility of each species of wood. Included in the study was Cryptomeria japonica, the reference control specified in the Japanese standard. The results of the study indicated that P. merkusii is a suitable reference species of wood for inclusion in laboratory tests against subterranean termites, conducted in accordance with the Indonesian standard (SNI 01.7207-2006). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Termite Management and Control - Special Issue Dedicated in Memory of Dr. Kunio Tsunoda)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

147 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Termite Resistance of Thermally-Modified Dendrocalamus asper (Schultes f.) Backer ex Heyne

by Ronniel D. Manalo and Carlos M. Garcia

Insects 2012, 3(2), 390-395; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects3020390 - 27 Mar 2012

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 6839

Abstract

The effects of thermal modification on the resistance of Dendrocalamus asper against Microcerotermes losbañosensis were investigated after exposure to virgin coconut oil at 140–200 °C for 30–120 min. The results showed that heat treatment significantly improved bamboo’s resistance to termites based on mass [...] Read more.

The effects of thermal modification on the resistance of Dendrocalamus asper against Microcerotermes losbañosensis were investigated after exposure to virgin coconut oil at 140–200 °C for 30–120 min. The results showed that heat treatment significantly improved bamboo’s resistance to termites based on mass losses and visual observations. The enhancement was highest at 200 °C. Prolonged treatment had a positive effect on the resistance at lower temperatures only. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Termite Management and Control - Special Issue Dedicated in Memory of Dr. Kunio Tsunoda)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

155 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Resistance of Wood Wool Cement Board to the Attack of Philippine Termites

by Carlos M. Garcia, Dwight A. Eusebio, Marciana R. San Pablo and Edgar M. Villena

Insects 2012, 3(1), 18-24; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects3010018 - 28 Dec 2011

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 8546

Abstract

The resistance of yemane (Gmelina arborea Roxb.)-based wood wool cement board (WWCB) against Philippine termites was evaluated under laboratory and field conditions. Tests were conducted following the FPRDI standard procedures in determining the resistance of WWCB against subterranean and drywood [...] Read more.

The resistance of yemane (Gmelina arborea Roxb.)-based wood wool cement board (WWCB) against Philippine termites was evaluated under laboratory and field conditions. Tests were conducted following the FPRDI standard procedures in determining the resistance of WWCB against subterranean and drywood termites. Results of the laboratory tests showed that WWCB was resistant to both Microcerotermes losbañosensis Oshima and Cryptotermes dudleyi Banks. Under field conditions, WWCB was highly resistant to subterranean termites. There was no remarkable termite damage except for the normal nibbling or initial termite feeding on the board during the 8-year exposure period. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Termite Management and Control - Special Issue Dedicated in Memory of Dr. Kunio Tsunoda)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

455 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Seasonal and Daily Patterns in Activity of the Western Drywood Termite, Incisitermes minor (Hagen)

by Vernard Lewis, Shawn Leighton, Robin Tabuchi and Michael Haverty

Insects 2011, 2(4), 555-563; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects2040555 - 12 Dec 2011

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 6202

Abstract

Activity of colonies of the western drywood termite, Incisitermes minor, was measured with acoustic emission (AE) technology in five loquat (Eriobotrya japonica) logs. Termite activity, whether it was feeding, excavation or movement, was monitored for 11 months under ambient conditions [...] Read more.

Activity of colonies of the western drywood termite, Incisitermes minor, was measured with acoustic emission (AE) technology in five loquat (Eriobotrya japonica) logs. Termite activity, whether it was feeding, excavation or movement, was monitored for 11 months under ambient conditions in a small wooden structure maintained at the University of California Richmond Field Station. AE, temperature, and humidity data were measured in 3-minute increments. Termite activity was greater during the warmer summer months compared to the cooler winter months. Termites in all five logs displayed a similar daily cycle of activity, peaking in the late afternoon. Seasonal and daily fluctuations in termite activity were significantly associated with temperature, whereas humidity did not appear to have a noticeable effect on termite activity. Possible mechanisms that drive the seasonal and daily cycles in termite activity, as measured by AE technology, and the possible implications for inspections and post-treatment analysis are discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Termite Management and Control - Special Issue Dedicated in Memory of Dr. Kunio Tsunoda)

► Show Figures

1070 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Preferences of Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki and Coptotermes gestroi (Wasmann) (Blattodea: Rhinotermitidae) among Three Commercial Wood Species

by Nirmala K. Hapukotuwa and J. Kenneth Grace

Insects 2011, 2(4), 499-508; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects2040499 - 25 Nov 2011

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 6906

Abstract

The Formosan subterranean termite, Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki, and the Asian subterranean termite, Coptotermes gestroi (Wasmann), are both pests of wood in service in Hawaii and Florida. We conducted a laboratory study using method modified from those described in standard E1-09 of the American [...] Read more.

The Formosan subterranean termite, Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki, and the Asian subterranean termite, Coptotermes gestroi (Wasmann), are both pests of wood in service in Hawaii and Florida. We conducted a laboratory study using method modified from those described in standard E1-09 of the American Wood Protection Association (AWPA 2009) to assess the termite resistance of three commercially available wood species used in regions of the USA where both termite species occur: Douglas fir, Pseudotsuga menziessii, southern yellow pine, Pinus spp. and redwood, Sequoia sempervirens. A multiple-choice (three-choice) assay was used for four weeks (28 days) in order to simulate field conditions of food choice and assess termite feeding preferences under 28 °C and 72–80% RH. 400 termites (360 workers: 40 soldiers) were released into each test jar. Five replicates and two controls of each wood species were used with each termite species. Termite mortality was recorded at the end of the test; and wood wafers were oven-dried and weighed before and after termite exposure to determine the mass loss due to termite feeding, and rated visually on a 0 (failure) to 10 (sound) scale. There were significant differences in mean mass loss values among the three wood species and between two termite species. The mean mass loss value for redwood was significantly lower than Douglas fir and southern yellow pine with both termite species. However, C. formosanus showed increased feeding on Douglas fir and southern yellow pine compared to C. gestroi. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Termite Management and Control - Special Issue Dedicated in Memory of Dr. Kunio Tsunoda)

► Show Figures

160 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Efficacy of Organo-Complex-Based Wood Preservative Formula Against Dry-Wood Termite Cryptotermes cynocephalus Light

by Maya Ismayati, Khoirul Himmi Setiawan, Didi Tarmadi, Deni Zulfiana, Sulaeman Yusuf and Budi Santoso

Insects 2011, 2(4), 491-498; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects2040491 - 15 Nov 2011

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 6335

Abstract

The utilization of pesticides often leaves residues which potentially pollute the environment. This journal issue has been encouraging some researchers to find an environmentally friendly insecticide by a cheaper wood preservative method. The International Standard for Phytosanitary Measures 15 (ISPM 15) [1] that [...] Read more.

The utilization of pesticides often leaves residues which potentially pollute the environment. This journal issue has been encouraging some researchers to find an environmentally friendly insecticide by a cheaper wood preservative method. The International Standard for Phytosanitary Measures 15 (ISPM 15) [1] that is adopted in wood packaging protection in Europe is not suitable for tropical countries like Indonesia. Therefore, the treatment by Organo-Complex-based wood preservation, which consists of copper chromium combined with natural organic compounds, is proposed for effective treatment at a lower cost. The bioassay test was subjected to dry wood termite Cryptotermes cynocephalus Light. The result showed that wood materials treated by 10 ppm Organo-Complex formula gave good results which were indicated by the low consumption and the fast termination of the termites. The toxicity analysis of C-C organic compound solution is classified as grade IV (WHO, 2003) [2], or not harmful. Analysis of the residual content four weeks after the spraying treatment showed a significant reduction in the inorganic content (copper chromate complex), in the range of 35%, and in extracts of natural materials (natural extracts), above 80%. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Termite Management and Control - Special Issue Dedicated in Memory of Dr. Kunio Tsunoda)

► Show Figures

288 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Study of the Resistance of Six Hawaii-Grown Bamboo Species to Attack by the Subterranean Termites Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki and Coptotermes gestroi (Wasmann) (Blattodea: Rhinotermitidae)

by Nirmala K. Hapukotuwa and J. Kenneth Grace

Insects 2011, 2(4), 475-485; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects2040475 - 3 Nov 2011

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 6880

Abstract

Bamboo is widely grown and utilized as a construction material around the world, particularly in the tropics. At present, there are about 70 bamboo species and varieties recorded from Hawaii. The objective of our study was to determine the relative resistance of six [...] Read more.

Bamboo is widely grown and utilized as a construction material around the world, particularly in the tropics. At present, there are about 70 bamboo species and varieties recorded from Hawaii. The objective of our study was to determine the relative resistance of six Hawaii-grown bamboo species to attack by Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki and Coptotermes gestroi (Wasmann). Four-week laboratory feeding trials were performed as described in standard E1-09 of the American Wood Protection Association (AWPA 2009). Samples of each of the six bamboo species were individually exposed to 200 termites (with 10% soldiers); and termite mortality, wood mass loss, and visual appearance of the samples (on a scale of 0–10) were recorded at the conclusion of the trail. Mean mass losses of the six species as a result of termite feeding ranged from 13–29%; with the two most resistant bamboo species, Gigantocholoa pseudoarundinacea and Bambusa oldhamii, demonstrating significantly greater resistance to termite attack than the most susceptible bamboo species, Guadua anguistifolia, with both termite species. Dendrocalamus brandisii, Dendrocalamus latiflorus, and Bambusa hirose were intermediate in their termite resistance. Overall, we observed very little difference in wood preference between C. formosanus and C. gestroi. Although bamboo is a very promising construction material, and species clearly differ in their susceptibility to termite attack, all six species evaluated in the present study would require additional protection for use under conditions of high termite pressure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Termite Management and Control - Special Issue Dedicated in Memory of Dr. Kunio Tsunoda)

► Show Figures

81 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Termite Incidence on an Araucaria Plantation Forest in Teluk Bahang, Penang

by Aiman Hanis Jasmi and Abu Hassan Ahmad

Insects 2011, 2(4), 469-474; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects2040469 - 2 Nov 2011

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 7467

Abstract

A study was carried out to evaluate the incidence of termite attack on an Araucaria cunninghamii plantation at Teluk Bahang Forest Park (TBFP), Penang. The hilly plantation area was surveyed to determine the diversity of termite species present. Termite specimens were collected from [...] Read more.

A study was carried out to evaluate the incidence of termite attack on an Araucaria cunninghamii plantation at Teluk Bahang Forest Park (TBFP), Penang. The hilly plantation area was surveyed to determine the diversity of termite species present. Termite specimens were collected from standin Araucaria trees, underground monitoring (aggregation) stations, fallen logs, forest litter and mounds (nests). Seven species of termites were identified from 6 genera; Coptotermes curvignathus, Schedorhinotermes medioobscurus, Schedorhinotermes malaccensis, Odontotermes sarawakensis Parrhinotermes aequalis, Macrotermes malaccensis and Hospitalitermes hospitalis. A total of 289 Araucaria trees were inspected for signs of termite attack. Termite infestation of trees was determined mainly by the presence of mud on the trunk, but particularly around their butts at ground line. The most dominant termite species discovered infesting the Araucaria trees was Coptotermes curvignathus; accountable for 74% of all infestations. Schedorhinotermes medioobscurus and Odontotermes sarawakensis were commonly found infesting dead trees and/or tree stumps. Approximately 21.5% of all Araucaria trees in the plantation forest at Teluk Bahang were infested by termites. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Termite Management and Control - Special Issue Dedicated in Memory of Dr. Kunio Tsunoda)

155 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Termite Resistant Properties of Sisal Fiberboards

by Firda Aulya Syamani, Bambang Subiyanto and Muhamad Yusram Massijaya

Insects 2011, 2(4), 462-468; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects2040462 - 31 Oct 2011

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 5508

Abstract

A study was carried out to test sisal (Agave sisalana Perrine) fiberboards properties as building materials against Asian subterranean termite, Coptotermes gestroi (Wasmann). Evaluation was in the laboratory according to the JWPA Standard-TW-S.1-1992. To improve mechanical properties of fiberboards made from sisal [...] Read more.

A study was carried out to test sisal (Agave sisalana Perrine) fiberboards properties as building materials against Asian subterranean termite, Coptotermes gestroi (Wasmann). Evaluation was in the laboratory according to the JWPA Standard-TW-S.1-1992. To improve mechanical properties of fiberboards made from sisal fibers, the boards were overlaid by rubber veneer, betung bamboo matting or formica. Result showed that the formica-overlaid sisal fiberboards performed better than other overlaid fiberboards against C. gestroi. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Termite Management and Control - Special Issue Dedicated in Memory of Dr. Kunio Tsunoda)

► Show Figures

Review

Jump to: Research, Other

152 KiB

Open AccessReview

Development of Silafluofen-Based Termiticides in Japan and Thailand

by Yoshio Katsuda, Yoshihiro Minamite and Charunee Vongkaluang

Insects 2011, 2(4), 532-539; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects2040532 - 8 Dec 2011

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 6608

Abstract

With the advancement from natural pyrethrins to synthetic pyrethroids, their applications have expanded from household insecticides for indoor use against sanitary pests to outdoor use for agriculture, forestry, animal health, termite control, and many other pest situations. However, high fish toxicity and development [...] Read more.

With the advancement from natural pyrethrins to synthetic pyrethroids, their applications have expanded from household insecticides for indoor use against sanitary pests to outdoor use for agriculture, forestry, animal health, termite control, and many other pest situations. However, high fish toxicity and development of pyrethroid resistance in some pests have been cited as common shortcomings of pyrethroids. To overcome these pyrethroid problems such as high fish toxicity, Katsuda and fellow scientists invented silafluofen by introducing a silicone atom into the pyrethroidal chemical structure in 1984. In addition to the high insecticidal activity and low mammalian toxicity, this compound features low fish toxicity, chemical stability under sunlight, in the soil and under alkaline environments. These features make silafluofen unique among pyrethroids. In Japan, silafluofen has been used as an agricultural insecticide for 15 years since 1995 for various plants, especially useful for paddy rice protection because of its low fish toxicity. Over the last 20 years, silafluofen-based termiticides including emulsifiable concentrate (EC) and oil formulations have been widely used in Japan for soil treatment and timber treatments. Additional silafluofen product lines include anti-termitic plastic sheets which are laid under buildings. In this paper, literature on the development of silafluofen and its use in Japan are reviewed. On the other hand, in Thailand, we proceeded with development works of silafluofen-based termiticides from 2005 by starting laboratory efficacy tests and field efficacy tests in Phuket. Both laboratory and field tests showed good efficacy as a soil termiticide, suggesting that the material will perform well for commercial use in high biological hazard environments such as Thailand and can be used in environments close to water where fish toxicity might be a concern with other pyrethroids. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Termite Management and Control - Special Issue Dedicated in Memory of Dr. Kunio Tsunoda)

► Show Figures

Other

Jump to: Research, Review

152 KiB

Open AccessProduct Review

A Preliminary Study on Elimination of Colonies of the Mound Building Termite Macrotermes gilvus (Hagen) Using a Chlorfluazuron Termite Bait in the Philippines

by Partho Dhang

Insects 2011, 2(4), 486-490; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects2040486 - 10 Nov 2011

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 5434

Abstract

The effectiveness of a chlorfluazuron termite bait in eliminating colonies of the termite species Macrotermes gilvus (Hagen) was evaluated under field conditions. Three active termite mounds were chosen for this study, two acted as test mounds and the other as the control. Four [...] Read more.

The effectiveness of a chlorfluazuron termite bait in eliminating colonies of the termite species Macrotermes gilvus (Hagen) was evaluated under field conditions. Three active termite mounds were chosen for this study, two acted as test mounds and the other as the control. Four In-Ground Stations (IGS) were installed around each mound. Interception occurred almost immediately in all the stations, which were subsequently baited. The control mound was fed a bait matrix lacking the active ingredient. Stations were re-baited every 2 weeks for 10–12 weeks until bait consumption ceased in the test mounds. The mounds were left undisturbed for four more weeks before being destructively sampled. The desiccated remains of workers, soldiers, late instars and queen were found upon sampling the treated mounds. A few live termites were located in one treated mound but were darkly pigmented indicating bait consumption. The control mound remained healthy and did not show any visible sign of negative impact. The bait successfully suppressed or eliminated both M. gilvus colonies within 16 weeks from commencement of feeding. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Termite Management and Control - Special Issue Dedicated in Memory of Dr. Kunio Tsunoda)

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Termite Management and Control - Special Issue Dedicated in Memory of Dr. Kunio Tsunoda

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editor

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Published Papers (12 papers)

Research

Review

Other

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI