Fire ant baits contain
- a food attractant, such as soybean oil,
- an insecticide or insect growth regulator.
The food attractant
- Entices fire ant workers to pick up the bait particles and carry them back to the colony.
- The active ingredient found on the bait particle is then passed around from one ant to another and eventually reaches the queen.
- Applied properly, and using a fresh bait product, a broadcast application may give 80% to 90% control, rarely 100%.
- Baits containing indoxacarb are the fastest acting, giving maximum control in 3 to 7 days.
Insect growth regulators
- When applied late in the year, may take several months to provide maximum control, but may suppress ant colonies for a year or more.
See also FAQ #824: "Which bait do I use?"
