Journal of Entomological Research

An alternate management system for termites in sugarcane was evaluated. The system included reduced frequency of application of synthetic organic pesticides (single application) as compared to standard chemical method, use of phytochemical (dry chilli powder) and food-bait trap (fish bladder) for predatory ant, Tetraponera sp. that predated on termites. Alternate management system was found to be quite effective and reflected in form of lower germination failure (62–65% germination during 30–45 days after sowing) and seedling damage (8–13% damaged tillers during 30–90 days after sowing) in sugarcane as well as in the termite population counts (0.7–9.1/15 cm³/plot) and was at par with chemical check. Chlorfenapyr and imidacloprid were at par but imidacloprid was more toxic to non-target organisms, thus use of chlorfenapyr is the better and rationally more acceptable option. Chilli powder showed some sort of repellent activity and contributed in lowering field population density of termites. Food-bait strongly attracted wood ants and they substantially predated upon termites which was reflected in damage parameters as well as in termite counts. Pesticide alone and in combination with Metarhizium performed at par indicating that fungus could not exert significant influence on termite populations.