Novel potential of effective microorganisms as bioattractant of domestic cockroaches in Malaysia

Abstract

Objective: Bioattraction has been an essential aspect of pest control especially for insects. In this study, Extremebionic'", a mixture of effective microorganisms, was tested as microbial-based bait for its potential in attracting domestic cockroaches in Malaysia. Materials and methods: Extremebionic" was activated for 5 days in 5% molasses to elicit production of volatile metabolites. The microbial culture and its metabolites was absorbed onto cotton pad and placed on a sticky trap. Several traps were placed strategically in infested residential halls to attract cockroaches. Results: To date, this is the first report on the use of microbial-based attractant consisting of effective microorganisms and their volatiles to attract cockroaches, thus addressing future application of biological baits as an alternative to domestic chemical based pest management.