Acute toxicity of fipronil to an invasive ant, Lepisiota frauenfeldi.

Abstract

Slow-acting fipronil is one of the best components for controlling invasive ants. However, its efficacy against invasive Lepisiota frauenfeldi, which recently invaded Japan, remains unclear. Here, its acute toxicity to Le. frauenfeldi was assessed, and its lethal concentrations were compared with those against other invasive ants (Linepithema humile and Solenopsis invicta). The LC₁₀ and LC₅₀ values of fipronil for Le. frauenfeldi were significantly lower than the previously reported values for Li. humile and/or S. invicta, and its LC₉₀ value against Le. frauenfeldi was in the same range as that required for Li. humile extermination. Additionally, Le. frauenfeldi can be more sensitive to fipronil than non-target arthropods. Therefore, recent fipronil-based Li. humile and S. invicta eradication/control programs may be effective against Le. frauenfeldi as well. Moreover, applying fipronil at dosages appropriate for Le. frauenfeldi would lead to effective Le. frauenfeldi extermination/control with low damage to other native species/ants.