Methods and compositions for pest control
Inventors
Jones, Tappey H. • Vander Meer, Robert Kenneth
Assignees
US Department of Agriculture USDA • VMI Foundation Inc
Publication Number
US-11767289-B2
Publication Date
2023-09-26
Expiration Date
2031-11-03
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Abstract
Methods and compositions for pest control, and more particularly for control of ants, e.g., of the subfamily Myrmicinae, using tyramides.
Core Innovation
The invention provides methods and compositions for pest control, specifically targeting ants of the subfamily Myrmicinae, by using naturally-occurring N-acyltyramines, also known as tyramides. The compositions comprise one or more substantially purified compounds of defined chemical formulas, including various salts such as sodium, potassium, ammonium, or amine salts. These compounds are present almost exclusively in male ants of the subfamily Myrmicinae, particularly in their external genitalia, and are transferred to females during mating, suggesting a role in regulating mating behavior.
The problem addressed is the significant ecological and economic damage caused by pest ants, including species such as imported fire ants (Solenopsis invicta) and leafcutter ants (Atta sp.). Current control methods are limited, and invasive ant populations are spreading extensively. Since ants rely on complex chemical signaling for mating and colony behaviors, the invention addresses the need for novel, biologically-based pest control methods that manipulate these chemical signals to disrupt reproduction and thereby control ant populations.
Claims Coverage
The patent includes one independent claim focusing on a method of disrupting ant reproduction using specific tyramide compounds, and several dependent features enhancing the method's applicability and formulations.
Method of disrupting ant reproduction using specific tyramide compounds
Administering to ants an effective amount of a composition comprising one or more compounds selected from specified chemical formulas representing tyramides and their salts, to disrupt ant reproduction.
Inclusion of ant-attractant or ant-toxic components in composition
The composition may further comprise an ant-attractant component, an ant-toxic component, or both to enhance efficacy.
Substantially purified composition forms
The composition can be substantially purified and presented in solid, liquid, or semi-solid forms, including sprays, powders, granules, tablets, gels, creams, or lotions.
Provision of salt forms
The compounds in the composition may be present as sodium, potassium, or ammonium salts.
Timing of composition administration
Composition administration occurs before the annual mating period of the ants, specifically within about 24 hours to about one month before mating.
The claims cover a method of ant reproduction disruption by administering compositions containing specific tyramide compounds and their salts, optionally formulated with attractants or toxins, in various forms, timed prior to the ant mating season to achieve control.
Stated Advantages
The invention provides biologically-based, environmentally friendly pest control methods for ants.
The tyramide compounds disrupt ant mating behavior thereby controlling ant populations.
Formulations can be adapted to various delivery methods including sprays, baits, and traps.
Documented Applications
Controlling pest ants, particularly those in the subfamily Myrmicinae including imported fire ants (Solenopsis invicta) and leafcutter ants (Atta sp.).
Use in compositions and devices for pest control, including sprays, powders, granules, tablets, gels, creams, lotions, baits, and traps.
Use as ant repellents applied in indoor or outdoor areas or on skin for protection.
Applying the composition to agricultural, residential, or commercial areas to manage ant infestations.
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