BASF Launches Altrevin Fire Ant Bait

During the 38th Annual California Association of Pest Control Advisors (CAPCA) meeting, BASF announced the availability of Altrevin fire ant bait insecticide (metaflumizone). Recently registered for almond and citrus growers, Altrevin fire ant bait delivers a unique mode of action for fast and lasting control.

Studies in almonds and citrus demonstrate Altrevin fire ant bait can kill 90% of a fire ant population in just seven days while providing up to eight weeks of control after application.

"Altrevin fire ant bait is an excellent new tool for almond and citrus growers fighting the many problems fire ants cause,” said Steven Broscious, Technical Market Manager, BASF. "The insecticide has demonstrated the ability to eliminate fire ant activity in as few as seven days.”

Altrevin fire ant bait represents the continuous focus from BASF to bring targeted new tools to the specialty market. Fire ants cause a number of issues for growers, such as reducing yields. According to the University of California, even a mild fire ant infestation can cost an almond grower $102.30 per acre in just 14 days. Fire ants also pose a risk to workers; their bite is strong, painful, and, in rare cases, has the power to kill those allergic to the sting. Additionally, fire ants damage and clog farming and irrigation equipment, further harming growers’ profits.

The Altrevin fire ant bait delivery system was specifically designed to make it a highly attractive food source to fire ants. “When worker ants return the bait as food to the colony, it’s passed from ant to ant,” Broscious said. “Most importantly, it’s fed to the queen, causing the colony to stop functioning and die.” The fast-acting control and five day pre-harvest interval of Altrevin fire ant bait also gives growers the flexibility to time applications when they want, including treatments prior to harvest to protect workers.

The Altrevin fire ant bait label directions allow for use of 1.5 pounds per acre, applied no more than four times per year. The maximum seasonal use rate should be six pounds per acre. For best results, apply Altrevin fire ant bait in the early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are above 60°F (fire ants are most active when temperatures are above this temperature). Growers should not apply if the ground is saturated with water or heavy dew, or when there are rains expected within 48 hours.