RODENTICIDE EFFICACY AGAINST RODENT POPULATIONS IN GROUNDNUT FIELDS DISTRICT UPPER DIR PAKISTAN
This study evaluated the efficacy of four different rodenticide treatments—Aluminum.
Phosphide (fumigant), Racumin 0.75% grain bait, Zinc Phosphide 2% cake bait, and Zinc Phosphide 2% grain bait—in controlling rodent burrow activity in groundnut fields. The results demonstrated that Aluminum Phosphide was the most effective, showing rapid and significant reductions in active burrows, achieving a 94.80% reduction by Day 4. Racumin showed a more gradual effect, with a 72% reduction by Day 4, while Zinc Phosphide 2% cake and grain baits exhibited slower, less effective results, reaching reductions of 62% and 60%, respectively. The study highlights the advantages of Aluminum Phosphide for rapid eradication in large-scale infestations, while Racumin is suitable for long-term rodent management with less immediate risk to non-target species. Zinc Phosphide baits, although effective, require multiple applications and are best suited for areas with lower rodent populations. Based on these findings, it is recommended that farmers use Aluminum Phosphide for quick rodent control in ground nut fields, while considering the efficacy variation based on location and crop type.
Keywords: Rodent, Groundnut Upper Dir
