Ultraviolet radiation as an ant repellent
- Texas Tech Univ., Lubbock, TX (United States)
In an effort to repel red imported fire ants (RIFA) from electrical devices, such as transformers, ultraviolet (UV) light was tested. Initial tests determined if RIFA`s tolerate a UV-irradiated environment when given a choice between UV-irradiated and non-irradiated. All replications in this test indicated that RIFA`s are intolerant of UV-irradiation and sought to escape it. RIFA`s moved to shaded environments and transported their brood out its well. A second test sought to determine if long-term UV-irradiation of the entire colonies cause increased RIFA mortality. Queenright colonies were exposed to UV irradiation of 254nm constantly for 115 days and colonies had a higher mortality rate than did a control colony. RIFA`s attempted to escape UV light and had increased rate when exposed to UV (254nm), but a practical application of this technique may be detrimental to insulation on electrical wiring.
- OSTI ID:
- 501749
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-961239-; TRN: 97:002725-0039
- Resource Relation:
- Conference: IDPT-2: 2. world conference on integrated design and process technology, Austin, TX (United States), 1-4 Dec 1996; Other Information: PBD: 1996; Related Information: Is Part Of Integrated design and process technology. Volume 3; Esat, I.I.; Veniali, F.; Rasty, J.; Gransberg, D.D.; Ertas, A. [eds.]; PB: 407 p.
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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