Efficacy of fumigation by cyphenothrin releasing smoke bombs against oriental cockroaches (blatta orientalis)

Cockroaches are known for their high reproductive potential, adaptability, and tendency to develop resistance to insecticides. The successful control requires a comprehensive approach and a combination of different methods, including fumigation. It is characterized by easy implementation and the ability to process large areas. The aim of the present study was to determinate effectiveness of fumigation for control of cockroaches in laboratory conditions, similar to practice. Groups of oriental cockroaches (n = 6) from 2 pig farms were placed in 5 zones in a lab, close to their natural location: open surfaces (№1 - floor, №2 - lab table, №3 - opened cupboard), closed spaces (№4 - closed cupboard) and hard-to-reach areas (№5 - upholstered furniture). Fumigations with cyphenothrin-releasing smoke bomb were performed at a dose of 1g per m3 and 12-hour exposure. Their effectiveness was evaluated by the appearance of a knockdown effect and achieved mortality. The tests revealed a knockdown effect at the end of the exposure in 52.78% of cockroaches in open areas (№1, 2, 3), 58.33% in closed spaces (№4), but not in hard-to-reach areas (№5). At the end of the monitoring period (96 hours), 100% mortality was found in the groups located in zone №1, 91.67% in zones №2 and №4, 83.34% in №3 and 49.99% in hard-to-reach places (№5). The obtained results define fumigation as a highly effective method for controlling cockroaches density in easily accessible and open areas of the premises. In hard-to-reach areas, additional and targeted treatments should be also implemented.