Synthetic Insecticides: The Backbone of Termite Management

Abstract

Termite management has been a challenge since time immemorial. In good old days, plant products have been used with limited success. With the discovery of organochlorine pesticides, the use of chemicals gained an impetus in management. Due to longer persistence and health hazards, the use of organochlorine pesticides was banned in most countries. However, for several decades, chlordane, heptachlor, lindane, etc. were mainly used for termite management. Subsequently organophosphates and pyrethroids replaced organochlorines in this scenario. Organophosphates and pyrethroids repel termites, but due to their highly toxic nature, ready availability, and relatively inexpensiveness, they are still being used in developing countries for management.