Purdue University research shows that a small amount of nicotinoid pesticide substantially weakens termites’ ability to fight off fungal diseases, a finding that could lead to more effective methods of pest control.
The study also provides clues into termites’ robust defense systems and how nicotinoids affect social insects.
Researchers found that a sublethal dose of imidacloprid knocked out key microbes in the termite gut and suppressed the social hygiene habits that help keep a termite colony healthy. Their defenses weakened, and the termites became vulnerable to a fungal pathogen that normally poses little threat. The combination of pesticide and pathogen wiped out laboratory colonies in seven days.
More information is available here: https://www.purdue.edu/newsroom/releases/2015/Q2/nicotinoid-and-fungal-disease-team-up-to-break-down-termites-tough-defenses.html
