Tips and Tricks: Control Fleas, Ticks by Breaking Reproduction Cycle

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April 10, 2014

Dr. ElRay Roper, Syngenta

Dr. ElRay Roper, Syngenta

Fleas and ticks can be difficult to control with general pest control methods and can disrupt the health and well-being of customers. To control these pests when they’re most vulnerable, break their reproduction cycles by using an insect growth regulator (IGR). Tips for IGR use are:

  1. Know the facts. IGRs reduce or stop reproduction by adult insects, causing them to lay nonviable eggs. IGRs mimic or inhibit insect hormones, such as juvenile hormones, that help the larvae change into pupae and the pupae to emerge as adults. IGRs provide effective residual control and work well indoors and out.
  2. Use an integrated approach. IGRs can stop the cycle of reproduction more effectively when used as part of an integrated pest management (IPM) program. This should include general sanitation methods, companion animal medications and thorough treatments with a registered insecticide.
  3. Combine IGRs with other products. Enhanced control of flea and tick populations can be achieved when you use an IGR combined with an adulticide, for example. Some IGRs can be tank-mixed with other insecticides, although always test it by mixing a small amount of each together.

 

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