The rising incidence of bedbug infestation coupled with bedbugs' growing resistance to insecticides has prompted concern. The magnitude of the problem is reflected by the Environmental Protection Agency's decision to host a National Bedbug Summit in April 2009. Scientists studying bedbug eradication have found a promising solution by combining pheromones with one of the oldest forms of pest control, desiccant dust. Does this Spark an idea?
Desiccant Dust
Desiccant dust kills bedbugs by encouraging dehydration. The dust disturbs the waxy outer layer on the bugs. Without this waxy protection, the bugs have a tendency to dry up and die. Desiccant dust comes in different varieties, including a silica gel compound called Dri-die and diatomaceous earth, a natural soil composed of tiny single-celled algae fossils. Diatomaceous earth has long been known as a natural, nontoxic remedy for bedbugs. Desiccant dusts are only effective if the bedbugs come into contact with them.
Alarm Pheromones
As reported in Medical News Today, recent research on bedbug eradication suggests that the most effective means of killing the pests is a combination of silica gel desiccant dust and two bedbug alarm pheromones. The synthetic alarm pheromones, (E)-2-hexenal and (E)-2-octenal, cause the bedbugs to become anxious, which makes them want to walk around. And when they are moving, they are more likely to walk through strategically placed desiccant dust.
Still in Research Phase
Though initial research indicates the combination of pheromones and desiccant dust may be the best-known method for killing bedbugs, researchers state more large-scale studies are needed. A desiccant dust and pheromone product is not yet on the market and may still be several years in the making. Until then, you can make do with desiccant dust combined with steam cleaning of infected areas.
Tags: desiccant dust, alarm pheromones, bedbug eradication, Desiccant dust