Rubberwood as a Potential Bait Matrix for Multigenera Subterranean Termites in Tropical Regions

Baiting is considered the most technically and economically effective method for monitoring and controlling termite populations. However, previous studies show the variation of the termite responses to the bait matrix, which reduces the effectiveness and increases the cost complexity of the control. These conditions drive the development of a bait matrix effective across various termite genera. In this study, we evaluated the potential of rubberwood (Hevea brasiliensis) as a bait matrix for multigenera subterranean termites. The effectiveness of the matrix was evaluated through field preference tests comparing rubberwood against jabon (Anthocephalus cadamba) and acacia (Acacia mangium) stakes. Palatability, physico-chemical analyses, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) profiling were conducted on rubberwood. Field preferences test showed that, within 60 days, 68% of rubberwood stakes were attacked by multigenera subterranean termites, with rubberwood stakes having significantly higher consumption (67.2 ± 29.5 g) than jabon (21.7 ± 5.1 g) or acacia (15.2 ± 11.1 g). The palatability test showed that untreated rubberwood has the best palatability as bait for subterranean termites. Principal component analysis showed that consumption was closely correlated with the mechanical properties and extractive substances in rubberwood. GC-MS analysis obtained two secondary metabolite compounds that potentially act as attractants and four fatty acids that potentially act as feeding stimulants. These findings demonstrate that rubberwood can serve as an effective bait matrix for both lower and higher termites, potentially reducing interception time and treatment duration in tropical infestations.