Description

Background The Main Problem Solution References

Background

Termites are among the most destructive pests globally, responsible for causing numerous damages to wooden structures, trees, and infrastructure. It is estimated that termite infestations cause over $40 billion in damages, including agriculture and forestry annually worldwide [8]. These insects live in large colonies, a mature colony containing up to two million individuals [2], and are capable of consuming 5 kilograms of wood per month [9]. Their silent activity often goes unnoticed until significant structural damage occurs, leading to costly repairs and economic losses. Traditional pest control methods predominantly rely on chemical pesticides such as sulfuryl fluoride, which is widely used in structural fumigation [6]. However, these chemicals pose serious environmental risks—contributing to greenhouse gas emissions, soil and water pollution, and contamination of agricultural regions. Moreover, such chemical pesticides can have adverse health effects on humans and wildlife [3], raising concerns about their long-term sustainability.

The Main Problem

The dependence on conventional chemical pesticides for termite control presents several critical issues. Most of these chemicals are toxic to non-target species and can contaminate soil and water sources, leading to ecological imbalances [5]. For instance, chlorpyrifos, a common pesticide, has been linked to neurodevelopmental issues in humans and wildlife [4]. Additionally, the widespread use of these chemicals fosters the development of resistance among termite populations, reducing treatment efficacy over time [1]. Repeated applications increase financial costs for homeowners, agricultural producers, and governments, while also exacerbating environmental degradation. With increasing global temperatures, rising heat and humidity levels facilitate termite proliferation and expand their geographical range—potentially increasing damage costs globally [7]. These integrated ecological, health, and economic impacts emphasize the necessity for innovative pest management solutions that are not only capable of overcoming termite infestation and resistance but also are safer and environmentally sustainable.

Figure. 1: This photo which was taken by one of our teammates shows the damage caused by termites.

Solution

Our innovative approach is to develop a termite management system through the development of an environmentally-friendly, biologically-based pest control measure that is suitable for various situations. One part of this strategy is to create two application models: solid underground bait stations, designed for long-term elimination of termite colonies, and targeted liquid syringes that deliver immediate treatment directly into infested trees or localized areas.

Our project utilizes synthetic biology to integrate natural toxins, attractants, and enhancers into a highly effective and safe pesticide formulation. Natural toxins derived from plants, such as EcTI, inhibit termites’ digestion, leading to starvation. Peptides like Hecate and Melittin—extracted from bee venom—target termite gut protozoa and disrupt cell membranes, causing cellular death. For luring termites to the baits, pheromones such as hydroquinone stimulate termite foraging behavior, increasing the likelihood of bait uptake. Additionally, a food bait is used as a carrier to enhance ingestion efficiency of the toxins. Tea-polyphenols are added to act as stabilizers, prolonging the efficacy of attractants.

These formulations can be tailored to various toxicity levels by controlling toxicity potency, ensuring safety for humans, pets, and non-target wildlife, while maintaining the desirable pest control effectiveness. By combining insights from biological sciences with innovative formulation techniques, our solutions aim to significantly reduce environmental contamination, lower reliance on toxic chemicals, and provide a sustainable alternative for termite management worldwide. This green integrated approach aligns with global sustainability goals and aims to protect non-target ecosystems and human health while effectively controlling termite populations.

Figure 2: Our Final Products.

References

  1. [1] Blanton, A. G., Perkins, S. E., & Peterson, B. F. (2023). In vitro assays reveal inherently insecticide-tolerant termite symbionts. Frontiers in Physiology, 14. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphys.2023.1134936

  2. [2] Chouvenc, T. (2023). A primer to termite biology:Coptotermescolony life cycle, development, and demographics. CABI EBooks, 40–81. https://doi.org/10.1079/9781800621596.0004

  3. [3] nipc. (2018). Sulfuryl Fluoride Technical Fact Sheet. Orst.edu. https://npic.orst.edu/factsheets/archive/sftech.html

  4. [4] Saunders, M., et al. (2012). Chlorpyrifos and neurodevelopmental effects: a literature review. Environmental Health, 11 (Suppl 1), S5. https://doi.org/10.1186/1476-069x-11-s1-s5

  5. [5] Tamer Üstüner, et al. (2020). Effect of Herbicides on Living Organisms. International Journal of Scientific and Research Publications, 10(8), 633. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/343878200

  6. [6] US EPA, O. (2021, May 7). Sulfuryl Fluoride. Www.epa.gov https://www.epa.gov/ingredients-used-pesticide-products/sulfuryl-fluoride

  7. [7] wakepest. (2025, April 24). How Climate Affects Termite Activity. Wake Pest. https://www.wakepest.com/how-climate-affects-termite-activity-and-infestation-risks/

  8. [8] Wasson, S. (2024, September 26). Termite Statistics. Today’s Homeowner. https://todayshomeowner.com/pest-control/guides/termite-statistics-facts/

  9. [9] Williams, C. (2021, July 20). Stampede Pest Control. Stampede Pest Control. https://stampedepestcontrol.com/how-fast-do-termites-spread/

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