The Science Behind Sundew’s Dual Cockroach Bait Solutions

At first glance, it might seem redundant for Sundew Solutions to offer two different cockroach bait gels for pest management professionals. However, this decision is far from arbitrary; it is a strategic and scientifically backed approach to ensuring the long-term effectiveness of cockroach control programs.

“The development of two distinct bait gels addresses two primary challenges in pest management: bait aversion and insecticide resistance. Understanding these phenomena and their implications is crucial for appreciating the necessity of Sundew offering two bait options,” explained David Priddy, CEO of Sundew Solutions.

Bait aversion in cockroaches is a phenomenon where genetic variants have a natural aversion or dislike to a particular food. If the bait contains this particular ingredient, these genetic variants won’t consume the bait so they survive. If the same bait is used repeatedly, these bait-averse variants become dominant in the population and the bait appears to no longer work. This is behavioural resistance – the insecticide would still work, it’s just that the cockroaches won’t eat the bait. This phenomenon was first observed with glucose-averse cockroaches.

Insecticide resistance occurs when cockroaches are produced with genetic mutations making them naturally more tolerant to a specific insecticide. If the same bait is used continuously on a population, the more naturally resistant cockroaches survive and reproduce, with the level of resistance increasing in the population over time.

There is nothing anyone can do about genetic variation; it’s going to happen. However, it is the action of pest managers that can select for these resistant individuals and accelerate the development of resistance. Applying the same insecticide, in the same account, regularly over a long period of time is the main driver of resistance. But inconsistent application or insufficient dosages can also play a role, allowing even weakly resistant individuals to survive and breed, thus developing the resistance levels in the population. Rotating between products containing insecticide with different modes of action and applying the correct dose is the best strategy to minimise the chance of resistance developing, especially in high use accounts.

In the ever-evolving battle against cockroach infestations, Sundew offers two distinct cockroach bait gels: AbolishPRO Roach Bait Gel (indoxacarb) and BattleaxePRO Roach Bait Gel (fipronil).

The two baits have distinctly different bait matrix formulations to combat bait aversion.

“AbolishPRO combines two types of protein (one animal-based and one plant-based) with two highly palatable carbohydrate attractants, neither of which is a simple sugar. This unique combination creates a bait matrix unlike any other in Australia, akin to offering cockroaches a juicy burger and a sweet shake,” explained Mr Priddy.

“Conversely, BattleaxePRO’s bait matrix is a basic carbohydrate, akin to offering a sweet doughnut. By presenting these vastly different bait options, pest management professionals can reduce the likelihood of bait aversion developing and maintain effective control over cockroach populations.”

To negate the possibility of insecticide resistance, in developing AbolishPRO (indoxacarb) and BattleaxePRO (fipronil) Roach Bait Gels, Sundew utilised different active ingredients from separate insecticide groups, with different modes of action.

By offering two distinct bait gels, Sundew equips pest management professionals with the tools to counteract pesticide resistance. Each bait gel contains different active ingredients, which means that cockroaches are less likely to develop resistance to both simultaneously. Alternating between these baits or using them in combination with other control methods, such as insect growth regulators (IGRs) or physical traps, creates a multi-faceted approach that targets cockroaches from multiple angles. This strategy not only curbs the development of resistance but also enhances the overall effectiveness of pest management programs. BattleaxePRO has the added benefit of being HACCP certified, making it a great choice for use in commercial kitchens.

Understanding the application preferences of pest management professionals, Sundew has tailored the packaging of each product to maximise usability. BattleaxePRO comes in the traditional syringe and plunger delivery mechanism favoured by many technicians. In contrast, AbolishPRO is available in a convenient large 50 g squeeze tube applicator. This consideration ensures that pest management professionals can choose the most suitable product for their needs.

“For pest management professionals, the ultimate goal is to achieve and maintain effective control over cockroach populations. This requires a dynamic and adaptable approach that anticipates and mitigates the challenges posed by bait aversion and pesticide resistance. Sundew’s dual bait gel strategy embodies this proactive mindset, offering solutions that are scientifically grounded and practically proven,” added Mr Priddy.

“Both AbolishPRO and BattleaxePRO Roach Bait Gels are perfect partners for use with Sundew’s non-repellent long-term residual treatment, EnsnarePRO 50 SC Insecticide (indoxacarb), for the ultimate in heavy infestation elimination.”

Sundew remains a leader in research and product development for cockroach infestations, offering a comprehensive range of products including BattleaxePRO Professional Aerosol, StarrdustPRO Insecticidal Dust, PestieDotz, and TaserPRO.

Published Professional Pest Manager Magazine, September 2024