Researchers have developed a targeted treatment using the chemical bistrifluron to control drywood termite infestations. The approach interferes with the insects' molting process and achieved high mortality rates in laboratory tests.
Scientists at the University of California, Riverside tested bistrifluron against western drywood termites. The compound blocks chitin formation needed for new exoskeletons, leading to colony collapse over roughly two months. In one test, it produced 96 percent mortality within 60 days when only a small portion of termites were initially exposed, as the material spread through the colony via feeding behaviors.