The Power of Fly Bait Rotation for Long-Term Success
Maintaining a successful fly control program in any operation requires more than just using a single fly bait repeatedly. Fly populations can quickly develop resistance to insecticides if continually using products with the same active ingredient or active ingredients that have the same mode of action. To combat this, it is crucial to implement a strategic fly bait rotation plan. By rotating baits with different active ingredients, modes of action, and attractants, you can effectively reduce fly populations and prevent resistance.
Key Strategies for Fly Bait Rotation:
- Rotate Active Ingredients: The most valuable method for mitigating resistance is rotating the active ingredients in your fly baits. Starbar® offers a range of fly baits with different active ingredients and mode of actions. QuikStrike® Fly Bait, Cyanarox® Insecticidal Bait, Golden Malrin® Fly Bait, and DuraStrike® Fly Scatter Fly Bait, provide four different modes of action for fly control. Using a variety of these products ensures that flies do not develop resistance to any one insecticide.
- Rotation Schedule: Producers have multiple options when deciding on which rotation method works best for their operation. Producers can choose to rotate to a new mode of action based on calendar month, quarter or even choose two products for the year and switch half-way through the summer and fly season. The most effective way to combat insecticidal resistance is to not use a single product until it loses all of its efficacy.
Kyle Vincent, Regional Sales Manager at Starbar®, emphasizes the importance of addressing resistance issues promptly. "When customers tell me a product isn't working like it used to, it's a clear sign of resistance. With four classes of chemistry in our scatter baits, it's easy to switch to a new rotation plan that will be effective."
Kylie Sherrill, Tech Services Entomologist at Starbar®, adds that resistance can develop quickly. "Resistance can happen in just a few generations, especially with long-term use patterns. Our four different chemistries provide a range of options to tackle resistance effectively."
Understanding Fly Resistance:
Fly resistance can manifest in two main ways:
- Genetic Resistance: Over generations, flies may develop genetic resistance, making insecticides less effective. This resistance means that adult flies, which have already reproduced, pass on resistant genes, leading to tougher future generations.
- Behavioral Resistance: Flies may also develop behavioral resistance, learning to avoid bait stations where they previously encountered insecticides. This survival instinct can make traditional control methods less effective.
To address these challenges, the diverse Starbar® product lineup offers different modes of action, ensuring flies are targeted in multiple ways. As Sherrill explains, "Just like different methods to turn off power to a lamp, our insecticide chemistries provide various ways to effectively kill flies."
Comprehensive Rotation Program:
Rotation of active ingredient baits is the most valuable method for resistance mitigation. A rotation of products, such as DuraStrike® Fly Scatter Bait, QuikStrike® Fly Bait, Golden Malrin® Fly Bait, and Cyanarox® Insecticidal Bait, can help ensure that flies won’t develop insecticide resistance or resistance to any singular baits. Vincent highlights the advantage of the Starbar® complete rotation program offering. "Having four different baits allows us to provide a thorough rotation plan, preventing resistance and ensuring long-term effectiveness."
Sherrill adds that familiarity with their own product labels and application rates simplifies the process. "We don't need to play catch up with different labels and equipment. Our comprehensive knowledge ensures we can effectively manage resistance."
Implementing a strategic fly bait rotation plan is essential for effective fly control. By rotating products with different active ingredients and modes of action, you can effectively combat flies and prevent fly bait resistance.
