Efficacy of certain Gel Baits against the German cockroach, Blattella germanica L. (Dictyoptera: Blattellidae) under laboratory conditions

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Benha University, Faculty of Science, Entomology Department, Egypt

2 Entomology Department, Faculty of Science, Benha University

Abstract

The comparative attractivity and toxicity of certain Gel Baits against the German cockroach were investigated under laboratory conditions. The latter used to determine which of these baits were most effective against adult males and females German cockroach Blattella germanica (L.) (Dictyoptera: Blattellidae). The toxic baits tested were: Combat, 0.01% Fipronil; Siko Biko; Siko Biko with Taro plant; Hexan Gel and Killer Sweet, 47% boric acid. Results showed that in both choice and no-choice tests, Combat and Siko Biko with Taro plant were the most toxic baits against both sexes, while Killer sweet was the least toxic. In trapping experiments, Combat and Siko Biko with extract were also the most attractive to both sexes, while Killer sweet was the least attractive one. To improve the toxicity and attractiveness of Siko Biko bait, 4% ethanol extract of taro plant, Colocasia esculenta was added. The additive significantly rendered its toxicity from 83.33 ± 1.76% to 100% and from 60.00 ± 1.15% to 73.33±0.33% for males and females cockroach in no-choice assay, and from 76.66±0.88% to 100% and 53.33±0.88% to 66.66±1.01% for male and female cockroaches in choice assay, respectively. Its attractiveness was also increased from 36.66% to 80% and from 26.66% to 68.66% for male and female cockroaches, respectively.