Evaluation of Parameters Specified in AWPA standard E1-97: Standard Method for Laboratory Evaluation to Determine Resistance to Subterranean Termites

This research focuses on the evaluation of many aspects of the American Wood Protection Association (AWPA) Standard E1-97, “Standard Method for Laboratory Evaluation to Determine Resistance to Subterranean Termites.” This standard is used extensively for testing the efficacy of new products and preservative systems against subterranean termite species. Research was done to determine what changes, if any, are needed for testing against subterranean termite species such as Coptotermes formosanus (Shiraki) and species of native termite genus Reticulitermes (Holmgren), primarily R. flavipes (Kollar). Variables from the current standard were tested to determine effects of parameters such as moisture of sand substrate; size, type, and location of test material within a test bottle; and termite number and ratios of workers to soldiers per test bottle. Research also improved comprehension of termite biology in a laboratory setting, enabling researchers to develop new and safer control methods