The Perfect Meal: Determining How Age and Humidity Effect Cockroach Gel Bait Performance

German cockroaches, Blattella germanica (L.), remain one of the most dangerous and difficult urban pest species to manage. This is due in large part to the extensive use of residual sprays containing pyrethroids, to which German cockroaches are highly resistant. Baits, however, remain highly effective and have proven capable of eradicating cockroach infestations from structures independent of other management strategies. That said, there are still many questions surrounding baits, particularly related to their efficacy over time after application. To address these questions and improve baiting efficacy, we propose to evaluate bait performance over time, looking specifically at the effects of aging and relative humidity on bait attraction, consumption, and effectiveness. Upon completion of this project, we will be poised to advise the pest management industry on optimal baiting strategies, improving treatment efficacy, and ultimately saving pest management professionals (PMPs)them both time and money.