METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A SELECTED PEST OF TERMITES, COCKROACHES AND ANTS

Abstract

SUMMARY “CUPINICIDAL COMPOSITION, CUPINICIDAL CONCENTRATE, METHOD TO CONTROL TERMINES, METHOD TO PROTECT A BUILDING FROM TERMINE INFESTATION OR TREAT A TERMINE INFESTED BUILDING, METHOD TO PROTECT AN AREA FROM TERMINE INFESTATION OR TREAT A TERMINE INFESTED AREA, METHOD TO PROTECT CROPS FOR TERMINAL INFESTATION OR TREAT CROPS INFESTED WITH TERMINES, METHOD FOR PREPARING A CUPINICIDAL CONCENTRATE FOR CONTROLLING TERMINES AND METHOD FOR PREPARING A CUPINICIDAL FOAM FOR CONTROLLING TERMINES” Termitecidal concentrate comprising a termitecidal composition comprising a phenylpyrazole, such as fipronil and a neonicotinoid , such as imidacloprid, the composition being dispersed in an aqueous medium to form the terminicidal concentrate. The concentrate containing the combination of active terminicides provides increased efficacy, not observed in any of the actives, when used separately.

Description

"METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A SELECTED PEST OF TERMITES, COCKROACHES AND ANTS" Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to a termiticide composition comprising active termiticides containing a phenylpyrazole from the group consisting of acetoprol, etiprol, fipronil, pyraclofos, pirafluprol, piriprol, vaniliprol, and combinations thereof; and a neonicotinoid selected from the group consisting of imidacloprid, acetamiprid, nitiazine, thiamethoxam, dinotefuran, nitenpyram, thiacloprid, clothianadine, and combinations thereof, a composition which results in increased efficacy against termites, compared with any active termiticide applied alone.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a method for controlling termites by applying a termiticide concentrate comprising the termiticide composition dispersed in an aqueous medium, to an area where termite control is required. History of the Invention

[0003] Termites are arguably the most destructive of all structural insects. It is estimated that termites cause $1.5 billion in annual structural damage, with an additional $1 million spent on treatment. Depending on the type of termite, a colony can cover up to 22,000 square feet. These industrious insects work 24 hours a day, gradually consuming wood and any other cellulose-containing material in their environment. By remaining hidden in the wood they feed on, in mud tunnels, or in the soil, they cause damage without being detected. There are two types of termites, described as i) termites Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pp. 106 / 149 2 / 40 of dry wood and ii) subterranean termites. Of these two types, subterranean termites generally live in the soil (i.e., soil termites), from which they build mud galleries in structural wood where they then feed.

[0004] Control of subterranean termites can be achieved through the strategic application of a termiticide concentrate to the soil where a termite infestation exists, providing a continuous chemical barrier in the soil around and beneath a structure. However, the final distribution of a termiticide concentrate in the soil is the result of a number of variables: soil moisture, soil type, solubility of the active ingredient in water, microbial degradation, type of composition, and application variables such as volume applied, pressure, and nozzle type. The preferred method for controlling subterranean termites is the application of a termiticide concentrate directly to the soil surface, thus creating a chemical barrier as the active termiticide spreads through the soil. Termiticides with potential utility for direct application to the soil surface are applied in the form of a termiticide concentrate."Termiticide concentrate is defined here as a termiticide composition comprising at least one active termiticide, the composition being dispersed in an aqueous medium to form a termiticide concentrate before its application to a location where termite control is required. Termiticide concentrates are popular materials used in the control of subterranean termites. There are two general types of termiticide concentrates used to treat termites around buildings (such as residences): repellent and non-repellent."

[0005] Concentrated termiticide repellents do not attract the Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pp. 107 / 149 3 / 40 termites; beforehand, it makes a treated area unattractive to them. When termites come into contact with the repellents, they are diverted from the structure. A repellent barrier treatment would require complete application to the soil to treat as many termite access points as possible. For many structures, this treatment would require extensive drilling into slabs / structures and foundation walls to reach and treat vulnerable areas in the soil where termites could penetrate. The problem with this type of treatment is that some termite access points are difficult to locate, and even the smallest gap in the barrier, before it is closed, could allow termites access and damage to the structure. Repellent termiticides are designed to control only termites that come into direct contact with the product.

[0006] Typically, non-repellent products are not easily detected by termites, and therefore these insects do not attempt to avoid the treated area. Instead, they remain in the tunnel, penetrating the treatment zone without realizing they are coming into contact with the treated soil. Foraging termites are usually the first to physically contact and act as carriers of these non-repellent products, which are then shared with the rest of the colony during feeding and cleaning, effectively controlling colony members. The result of this transfer effect is the control of a greater number of termites than the number that normally enter a treatment zone. Furthermore, gaps in treatment application represent less of a problem with non-repellent termiticides compared to repellent termiticides. Concentrated non-repellent termiticides and extensive research in this field have brought new options to Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pp. 108 / 149 4 / 40 treatment for the market. Non-repellent products can be applied using conventional treatments around the entire perimeter.

[0007] Both phenylpyrazoles (e.g., fipronil) and neonicotinoids (e.g., imidacloprid) are the two most common types of non-repellent termiticides currently on the market for termite control. Phenylpyrazoles achieve their effectiveness by affecting the central nervous system by blocking the passage of chloride ions through the GABA receptor and glutamate-gated chloride channels (GluCl), which are components of the central nervous system. This interference causes hyperexcitability of contaminated nerves and muscles, resulting in eventual death. Neonicotinoids achieve effectiveness by binding to postsynaptic nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR). Both types of compounds are slow-acting termiticides and, as such, can be carried back to the nests. Neonicotinoids have demonstrated good mobility in soil, providing a continuous chemical barrier. Ballard et al., U.S. Patent No. 8,133,499, column 2, lines 2-4.

[0008] Fipronil was first released in the United States in 1996 by Rhone Poulenc Ag Company. The first fipronil-based termite control product in the US was Termidor®, approved by the EPA in 1999. Compared to fipronil, imidacloprid has a longer history, with its first synthesis and mode of action reported in 1984. Premise® is the first registered trademark of an imidacloprid termite control product in the United States, marketed by Bayer Corporation in the mid-1990s. Both are popular individually for their non-repellent nature and effectiveness. Non-repellent nature, delayed toxicity Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pp. 109 / 149 5 / 40 and horizontal transfer are characteristics that lead to greater effectiveness in controlling termite populations than conventional acutely toxic pyrethroid repellents or organophosphorus termiticides. See Kard, B. (2001). Gulfport studies stay the course. Pest Control 69: 30-33, 73; Hu, XP (2005). Evaluation of efficacy and nonrepellance of indoxacarb and fipronil-treated soil at various concentrations and thicknesses against two subterranean termites (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae). Journal of Economic Entomology 98: 509-517 (2005); and Tsunoda, K. (2006). Effect of 18-months' storage of treated sandy loam on the transfer of fipronil from exposed workers to unexposed workers of Coptotermes formosanus (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae). Sociobiology 48: 627-634 (2006). As discussed later, imidacloprid has also demonstrated some effects on termites, typically consistent with repellent termiticides.

[0009] Ballard, U.S. Patent No. 8,133,499, reports termiticidal compositions that include a synergistic mixture of a neonicotinoid, such as imidacloprid, and a pyrethroid, such as bifenthrin. And Karr, U.S. Patent No. 6,093,415, reports termiticidal compositions using a synergistic mixture of a chitin synthesis inhibitor and a juvenile hormone mimic.

[00010] At one time, it was theorized that a synergistic effect could be obtained by combining phenylpyrazole and neonicotinoid agents, as they have different modes of action. However, at least one study concluded that imidacloprid reduced the effectiveness of fipronil when the two termiticides were combined. See Luo, P., Toxicity Interaction of Fipronil and Imidacloprid against Coptotermes Formosanus (Dissertation) Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pp. 110 / 149 (6 / 40 of Thesis, 2010). The first objective of Luo's research was to determine if the combination of termiticides increased toxicity against termites. Conversely, the study concluded that a lower mortality rate was observed when imidacloprid was mixed with fipronil than with fipronil alone, and that the highest mortality rate occurred with the combination rather than with imidacloprid separately. It was then proposed that the presence of imidacloprid reduced the chances of termites coming into contact with and ingesting the more toxic fipronil, causing lower mortality rates when the two termiticides were combined – a result more commonly expected if a repellent termiticide were mixed with a non-repellent agent. Based on the study's results, the hypothesis that there would be a synergistic effect between fipronil and imidacloprid was rejected. Currently, a mixture comprising a combination of these two termiticides is not commercially available.

[00011] Therefore, considering the high efficacy and toxicity observed with the use of phenylpyrazoles and neonicotinoids, when employed separately to treat and prevent termite infestations, it would be desirable to provide a termiticide composition that efficiently combines both a phenylpyrazole and a neonicotinoid, without reducing the efficacy of either of them. Summary of the Invention

[00012] It was unexpectedly discovered that a termiticide composition comprising active termiticides, which in turn comprised a phenylpyrazole selected from the group consisting of acetoprol, etiprol, fipronil, pyraclofos, pirafluprol, piriprol, vaniliprol, and combinations thereof; and a neonicotinoid. Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pp. 111 / 149 7 / 40 selected from the group consisting of imidacloprid, acetamiprid, nitiazine, thiarnetoxam, dinotefuran, nitenpyram, thiacloprid, clothianadine, and their combinations, when used dispersed with an aqueous medium to form a termiticide concentrate, provided improved efficacy against subterranean termites. This contradicts what was previously determined.

[00013] The termiticide compositions of the present invention are preferably dispersed in an aqueous medium (e.g., water and / or water-soluble or water-miscible organic solvent), thus forming a termiticide concentrate. Application of the novel termiticide concentrate, comprising a combination of a phenylpyrazole and a neonicotinoid, to a termite-infested area has been found to result in unexpectedly improved termite control compared with results observed with the application of a termiticide concentrate containing either termiticide separately.

[00014] The object of the present invention generally relates to a termiticide composition containing active termiticides containing from about 1% to about 69% by weight of a phenylpyrazole selected from the group consisting of acetoprol, etiprol, fipronil, pyraclofos, pirafluprol, piriprol, vaniliprol, and combinations thereof; and from about 1% to about 69% by weight of a neonicotinoid selected from the group consisting of imidacloprid, acetamiprid, nitiazine, thiamethoxam, dinotefuran, nitenpyram, thiacloprid, clothianadine, and combinations thereof, wherein the composition comprises up to 70% by weight of the total active termiticide.

[00015] Furthermore, the object of the present invention relates to a termiticide concentrate comprising (1) a composition Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pp. 112 / 149 8 / 40 termiticide comprising active termiticides comprising from about 1% by weight to about 69% by weight of a phenylpyrazole selected from the group consisting of acetoprol, etiprol, fipronil, pyraclofos, pyrifluprol, pyriprol, vaniliprol, and combinations thereof; and from about 1% to about 60% by weight of a neonicotinoid selected from the group consisting of imidacloprid, acetamiprid, nitiazine, thiamethoxam, dinotefuran, nitenpyram, thiacloprid, clothianadine, and combinations thereof, the composition comprising up to 70% by weight of total active termiticide; and (2) an aqueous medium, such that the termiticide composition is dispersed in the aqueous medium to form the termiticide concentrate comprising from about 0.01% to about 2% by weight of the active termiticides.

[00016] In addition, the object of the present invention further provides a method for controlling termites, the method comprising applying a termiticide concentrate to a location or area where termiticide control is required, the termiticide concentrate comprising: (1) a termiticide composition that includes active termiticides comprising from about 1% by weight to about 69% by weight of a phenylpyrazole selected from the group consisting of acetoprol, etiprol, fipronil, pyraclophos, pyrafluprol, pyriprol, vaniliprol, and combinations thereof; and from about 1% to about 60% by weight of a neonicotinoid selected from the group consisting of imidacloprid, acetamiprid, nitiazine, thiamethoxam, dinotefuran, nitenpyram, thiacloprid, clothianadine, and combinations thereof, the composition comprising up to 70% by weight of total active termiticide; and (2) an aqueous medium, such that the termiticide composition is dispersed in the aqueous medium to form the termiticide concentrate comprising from about 0.01% to about Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pp. 113 / 149 9 / 40 of 2% by weight of the active termiticides. Detailed description of the invention.

[00017] The termiticide compositions and concentrates provided herein utilize a combination of active termiticides to treat termite infestations and prevent future infestations in indoor and outdoor areas, such as around the perimeter of a building structure, as well as open areas, such as agricultural properties. The compositions and concentrates of the present invention are based, in part, on the discovery that applying the novel termiticide concentrate to an area where termite control is desired results in improved control and prevents further infestations.

[00018] Generally, the termiticide concentrate comprises (1) a termiticide composition that includes active termiticides comprising from about 1% by weight to about 69% by weight of a phenylpyrazole selected from the group consisting of acetoprol, etiprol, fipronil, pyraclofos, pyrifluprol, piriprol, vaniliprol, and combinations thereof; and from about 1% to about 60% by weight of a neonicotinoid selected from the group consisting of imidacloprid, acetamiprid, nitiazine, thiamethoxam, dinotefuran, nitenpyram, thiacloprid, clothianadine, and combinations thereof, the composition comprising up to 70% by weight of total active termiticide; and (2) an aqueous medium, such that the termiticide composition is dispersed in the aqueous medium to form the termiticide concentrate comprising from about 0.01% to about 2% by weight of the active termiticides. All percentages quoted here are percentages by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, unless otherwise indicated.

[00019] The termiticide composition comprises a combination of Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pp. 114 / 149 10 / 40 active termiticides, which in turn comprise a phenylpyrazole and a neonicotinoid, and may optionally include other active termiticides known in the prior art. Alternatively, the active termiticides may consist only of a phenylpyrazole and a neonicotinoid.

[00020] In one embodiment, phenylpyrazole is preferably selected from the group consisting of acetoprol, etiprol, fipronil, pyraclophos, pirafluprol, pyriprol, vaniliprol, and combinations thereof. Phenylpyrazoles achieve their efficacy by interfering with the central nervous system by blocking the passage of chloride ions through the GABA receptor and glutamate-gated chloride channels (GluCl), which are components of the central nervous system. This interference causes hyperexcitability of contaminated nerves and muscles, resulting in eventual death. The compound is a slow-acting termiticide and, as such, can be carried back to the nests. The amount of phenylpyrazole in the termiticide composition can be from about 1% to about 69% by weight. Preferably, the composition comprises from about 1% to about 20% by weight of a phenylpyrazole. Even more preferably, the composition comprises from about 3% to about 10% by weight of a phenylpyrazole.In a preferred embodiment, the composition comprises approximately 6.6% by weight of a phenylpyrazole.

[00021] In a preferred embodiment, phenylpyrazole is fipronil. Fipronil is also known as 5-amino-1-[2,6-dichloro-4-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-4-[(1R,S)(trifluoromethyl)sulfinyl]-1H-pyrazole-3-carbonitrile, 5-amino-1-(2,6-dichloro,α,α,α-trifluoro-p-tolyl)-4[(trifluoromethyl)sulfinyl]pyrazole-3-carbonitrile, and fluocyanobenzpyrazole. Fipronil is also sold as Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pp. 115 / 149 11 / 40 termiticide under the trade name Termidor® (BASF). Fipronil is generally available as a liquid or solid crystalline substance or powder. The chemical structure of fipronil is illustrated below. The / /

[00022] It is understood that active analogues and associated derivatives of fipronil, or of any of the phenylpyrazoles discussed herein (including enantiomers, diastereomers, racemates or their pharmaceutically acceptable salts) are also included within the scope of the present invention.

[00023] In one embodiment, the neonicotinoid is preferably selected from the group consisting of imidacloprid, acetamiprid, nitiazine, thiamethoxam, dinotefuran, nitenpyram, thiacloprid, clothianadine, and combinations thereof. Neonicotinoids achieve their efficacy by binding to postsynaptic nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR). The amount of neonicotinoid present in the combination can be from about 1% to about 69% by weight. Preferably, the amount of neonicotinoid in the termiticide composition is from about 10% to about 40% by weight. Even more preferably, the amount of neonicotinoid in the termiticide composition is from about 15% to about 30% by weight. In a preferred embodiment, the amount of neonicotinoid in Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pp. 116 / 149 The 12 / 40 termiticide composition is approximately 21.4% by weight.

[00024] In a preferred embodiment, the neonicotinoid is imidacloprid. Imidacloprid is also known as N-[l[(6-chloro-3-pyridyl)methyl]-4,5-dihydroimidazol-2-yl]nitramide, and is sold as a commercially available termiticide under the trade name Premise® (Bayer).

[00025] The chemical structure for imidacloprid is shown below.

[00026] It is understood that analogues and derivatives and associates of imidacloprid, or of any of the neonicotinoids discussed herein (including enantiomers, diastereomers, racemates or their pharmaceutically acceptable salts) are also included within the scope of the present invention.

[00027] A basic termiticide composition used to form the termiticide concentrates of the present invention comprises from about 1% to about 69% by weight of a phenylpyrazole and from about 1% to about 69% by weight of a neonicotinoid, the composition comprising up to 70% by weight of total active termiticide (e.g., phenylpyrazole plus neonicotinoid). By way of non-limiting example, in one embodiment, the composition may comprise from about 1% by weight of a phenylpyrazole and from about 69% by weight of a neonicotinoid. In another embodiment, the composition may comprise from about 69% by weight of a phenylpyrazole and from about 1% by weight of a neonicotinoid. In yet another embodiment, the composition may comprise from about 30% by weight of a Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pp. 117 / 149 13 / 40 phenylpyrazole and approximately 40% by weight of a neonicotinoid.

[00028] In an alternative embodiment, the amount of total active termiticide present in the composition may be less than 70%. By way of non-restrictive example, in one embodiment, the termiticide composition may include from about 1% to about 20% by weight of a phenylpyrazole and from about 10% to about 40% by weight of a neonicotinoid. In another embodiment, the termiticide composition may include from about 3% to about 10% by weight of a phenylpyrazole and from about 15% by weight to about 30% by weight of a neonicotinoid. In a representative embodiment, the termiticide composition may include about 6.6% by weight of a phenylpyrazole and about 21.4% by weight of a neonicotinoid.

[00029] Alternatively, the composition may optionally comprise one or more active termiticides in addition to phenylpyrazole and neonicotinoid, in an amount such that the total of all active termiticides present in the composition does not exceed 70%.

[00030] The termiticide composition used to form the termiticide concentrates of the present invention may also include, in addition to the active termiticides discussed above, one or more non-termiticide components or agents, such as surfactants, preservatives, solvents, antifoaming agents, thickeners and the like.

[00031] The termiticide composition may include one or more surfactants, which may be of the emulsifying or wetting type, and which may be selected from anionic, nonionic, amphoteric and zwitterionic surfactants and mixtures thereof. When the composition is to be combined with water, the use of at least one surfactant is generally necessary, since termiticides Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pp. 118 / 149 14 / 40 active ingredients are not water-soluble. In one embodiment, any surfactant known in the industry can be used. Examples of suitable anionic surfactants useful in the present invention include, but are not limited to, alkyl sulfates, alkyl ether sulfates, alkyl sulfonates, alkyl sulfosuccinates, n-alkyl sarcosinates, alkyl phosphates, alkyl ether phosphates, alkyl ether carboxylates, alpha-olefin sulfonates, especially their ammonium, potassium, sodium, magnesium and mono-, di- and triethanolamine salts, and mixtures thereof. Particularly preferred anionic surfactants include sodium dioctyl sulfosuccinate (commercially sold as Aerosol® OT-B by Cytec) and potassium phosphate salt of ethoxylated tristyrylphenol (commercially sold as Soprophor FLK by Rhodia).

[00032] Examples of suitable amphoteric surfactants useful in the present invention include, but are not limited to, those selected from the group consisting of sultaines (such as cocamidopropyl hydroxy sultaine); glycinates (such as cocoamphocarboxyglycinates); glycines (such as cocoamidopropyldimethylglycine); propionates (such as sodium lauriminodipropionate, sodium cocoamphopropionate, cocoamphodipropionate and disodium cocoamphocarboxypropionate); and mixtures thereof. In addition, pseudoamphoteric (ampholytic) surfactants, such as betaines, are also commonly grouped under the designation of amphoteric and can be used for similar purposes. Non-restrictive examples of useful betaines include cocamidopropyl, coco and oleamidopropyl and mixtures thereof.

[00033] Examples of non-ionic surfactants useful in the present invention include, but are not limited to, products of Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pp. 119 / 149 15 / 40 Condensation of aliphatic alcohols (Cs-Cis), primary or secondary, linear and branched chain with alkylene oxides or phenols with alkylene oxides, generally ethylene oxide and generally containing 6 to 30 ethylene oxide groups. Other suitable non-ionic surfactants for use in the present invention may include fatty acid alkanolamides. Representative fatty acid alkanolamides include those containing Cs-Cis carbons, for example, fatty acid diethanolamines, such as isostearic acid diethanolamine, and coconut fatty acid diethanolamine. Suitable fatty acid monoethanolamides that may be used include coconut fatty acid monoethanolamide; coconut monoisopropanolamide. Mixtures of any of the foregoing are also provided for in the present invention.

[00034] Semipolar surfactants, such as amine oxides, are also suitable for use in the termiticidal compositions of the present invention. These may include, but are not limited to, N-alkylamine oxide, N-stearyl dimethylamine oxide and mixtures thereof. An N-acyl amide oxide includes N-cocamidopropyl dimethylamine oxide. The hydrophobic portion of the amine oxide surfactant may be provided by a fatty hydrocarbon chain containing about 10-21 carbon atoms.

[00035] The termiticide composition of the present invention may include a thickener. A thickener is desired to keep the termiticides suspended in the composition. Examples of thickeners include, but are not limited to, water-soluble polymers such as water-soluble saccharide and water-soluble synthetic polymer, and inorganic powder such as silica, magnesium silicate, aluminum silicate, magnesium aluminum silicate, Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pages 120 / 149 16 / 40 bentonite, smectite, hectorite, and aluminum oxide. In one embodiment, a mixture of two or more types of the aforementioned thickener is used. Examples of water-soluble saccharides include xanthan gum, gum arabic, ransamum gum, locust bean gum, carrageenan, welllan gum, lignosulfonic acid, starch, and carboxymethylcellulose and its salt. These water-soluble saccharides are commercially available under the names Kelzan® S (produced by CP Kelco) and Kelzan® ASX (produced by CP Kelco) for xanthan gum, and Cellogen® HE-90F (produced by Dai-ichi Kogyo Seiyaku) and Cellogen® HE-600F (produced by Dai-ichi Kogyo Seiyaku) for sodium carboxymethylcellulose.

[00036] The termiticide composition of the present invention includes an antifreeze agent selected from the group of alcohols, diols, polyols, and combinations thereof. Suitable examples of antifreeze agents that may be used include, but are not limited to, glycerol, methanol, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, potassium acetate, calcium magnesium acetate, sorbitol, and urea. A particularly preferred antifreeze agent is propylene glycol.

[00037] The termiticide composition of the present invention may include an antifoaming agent (such as Antifoam SE23 from Wacker Silicones Corp. or SAG 30 from Univar Corp.).

[00038] The termiticide composition of the present invention may also include one or more preservative compounds. The preservative compounds act to prevent corrosion of the container holding the termiticide composition. Suitable preservatives include sodium benzoate, benzoic acid, benzisothiazolinone (such as Proxel® GXL, produced by Arch Chemicals, Inc.) and potassium bicarbonate. Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pp. 121 / 149 17 / 40

[00039] In one embodiment, the active termiticides are combined with one or more solvents (which may be, for example, water and / or an organic solvent) before forming the termiticide concentrate for application to a location or area. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that the concentration of active termiticides in the termiticide composition will need to be adjusted, when necessary, according to the formula in which the composition is being formulated, and to ensure that the termiticide composition comprises the appropriate concentration of active termiticides, as provided for in the present invention.

[00040] The termiticide composition, as cited above, is preferably dispensed in an aqueous medium (preferably water and / or a water-soluble or water-miscible solvent) before its application to a location or area where termite control is required, thus forming a termiticide concentrate. In this respect, a termiticide concentrate generally comprises: (1) a termiticide composition comprising from about 1% by weight to about 69% by weight of a phenylpyrazole and from about 1% to about 60% by weight of a neonicotinoid, the composition comprising up to 70% by weight of total active termiticide; and (2) an aqueous medium. All termiticide compositions that are or can be dispensed in an aqueous medium prior to application are therefore included within the scope of the present invention (e.g., microemulsions, suspensions, concentrates, emulsifiable concentrates, wettable powders, water-dispersible granules, capsule suspensions, emulsifiable granules, and combinations thereof).Preferably, the active termiticides are diluted in the termiticide concentrate to a concentration of about 0.01% to about 2% by weight of the termiticide concentrate. In a preferred embodiment, the... Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pages 122 / 149 18 / 40 active termiticides are present in the termiticide concentrate at a concentration of about 0.05% to about 0.5% by weight of the termiticide concentrate. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that the weight of active termiticides added to the final product will need to be adjusted according to the dilution and to ensure that the final product comprises the appropriate final concentration of active termiticides.

[00041] The termiticide concentrate of the present invention can be prepared by dispersing the termiticide composition comprising the active termiticides in an aqueous medium to produce a termiticide concentrate suitable for application in a location where termite control is required. It is understood that the concentrates of the present invention encompass a variety of physical forms; however, the concentrates are generally directed to liquid solutions and suspensions. The concentrates can be prepared using standard techniques known in the art. For example, in an embodiment where the desired form is an emulsifiable concentrate, the emulsifiable concentrate is first prepared with a supply tube to fill a tank with an aqueous medium (water) to about one-quarter to about three-quarters of its capacity, the tank comprising a motor and a pump to agitate the contents.While the aqueous medium is being agitated, a termiticide composition comprising from about 1% to about 69% by weight of a phenylpyrazole and from about 1% to about 69% by weight of a neonicotinoid is prepared, the composition comprising up to 70% by weight of total active termiticide. An appropriate amount of the termiticide composition is then added to the tank. Generally, an amount of about 0.22 kg (0.5 lb) to about 2.26 kg (5 lb) is added. Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pp. 123 / 149 19 / 40 termiticide composition is added per liter (gallon) of aqueous medium. Preferably, about 0.68 kg (1.5 lb) to about 1.81 kg (4 lb) of termiticide composition are added per liter (gallon) of aqueous medium. In a representative embodiment, about 1.18 kg (2.6 lb) of termiticide composition are added per liter (gallon) of aqueous medium. The tank is then filled with the remaining amount of aqueous medium (e.g., water) to prepare the desired volume of emulsifiable concentrate. Agitation continues until the termiticide composition is fully dispersed in the aqueous medium, thus forming an emulsifiable concentrate that includes from about 0.01% to about 2% of the active termiticides.

[00042] In another embodiment, a foam termiticide can be prepared by preparing a termiticide concentrate, as provided for in the present invention, and adding an appropriate amount of a foaming agent.

[00043] In another embodiment, an agricultural spray product can be prepared by combining the termiticide composition described herein with an aqueous medium, such as water or petroleum distillates, and mixing well until the composition is completely dispersed in the aqueous medium. The agricultural spray product is then used with agricultural spraying equipment, as is known in the state of the art, such as irrigation systems (e.g., sprinkler, furrow, drip or dike irrigation systems), row crop sprayers, boom crop sprayers, low-volume micro-sprinklers, hydraulic sprayers, compressed air sprayers, and the like.

[00044] Using methods known in the state of the art, Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pages 124 / 149 20 / 40 termiticide concentrates are applied to a location requiring termite control to treat and / or prevent infestation. The location may comprise a perimeter or part of a perimeter around a structure. Alternatively, the location may comprise an area substantially defined by the area occupied by the structure. The location may be smaller than the area occupied by the structure and / or may be contained within the occupied area. Alternatively, the location to be treated may comprise any one or more parts of a perimeter of the structure, the area occupied by the structure, and an area associated with the structure but outside its perimeter. The location may be a spot treatment site inside or around a structure that is susceptible to infestation or is already infested.The site may include the land where the structure will be built in the future (typically referred to as pre-construction treatment) or it may include an existing structure (typically referred to as post-construction treatment).

[00045] Furthermore, the termiticide concentrates of the present invention can be applied to an open area (e.g., a farm) containing agricultural products, using methods known in the art for pest control in crops. The agricultural products can be selected from any generally known or used commercial crops, such as fruits, vegetables, berries, nuts, leaves, seeds, grains, and the like. Specific examples include strawberry, raspberry, blueberry, melon, stone fruit, nut crops, potatoes, vegetables, lawns, seed crops (i.e., grasses, alfalfa seeds), corn, rice, wheat, soybeans, dried beans, peanuts, cotton, sorghum, and other crops in Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pages 125 / 149 21 / 40 rows, cucurbits, other small fruit crops, and horticultural plants.

[00046] Generally, the termiticide concentrates of the present invention can be applied at a rate of about 3.78 liters (1 gallon) to about 37.85 liters (10 gallons) of termiticide concentrate per 0.93 linear meters by 0.30 meters deep (10 linear feet per foot deep). Preferably, the termiticide concentrates of the present invention are applied at a rate of about 7.57 liters (2 gallons) to about 22.71 liters (6 gallons) of termiticide concentrate per 0.93 linear meters by 0.30 meters deep (10 linear feet per foot deep). Most preferably, the termiticide concentrates are applied at a rate of about 15.14 liters (4 gallons) of termiticide concentrate per 0.93 linear meters by 0.30 meters deep (10 linear feet per foot deep).

[00047] As is known and understood in the state of the art, the objective of applying termiticide to soil is to provide a continuous treated zone between the existing wood in the structure and the termite colonies in the soil. Application procedures will depend on the soil type, leveling, water table, presence of drainage membranes / tiles, and the location of any wells in the area. The structure's design, the location of the termite colony, the severity of the infestation, and the termites' behavior should also be considered. Three common methods for applying termiticides, as known and described in the state of the art, are full-area spraying, injection below the structure, and trenching / use of lances. A low-pressure full-spray application can be used to apply the termiticide concentrate. Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pp. 126 / 149 22 / 40 as a pre-construction treatment before structures / slabs are concreted or as a post-construction treatment of inaccessible spaces. Generally, in pre-construction spraying, the termiticide concentrate is applied at a rate of about 3.78 to about 5.67 liters (1 to about 1.5 gallons) per 0.93 m2 (10 square feet).

[00048] Injection below the structure involves drilling holes in blocks, walls, slabs, or other parts of the infested building and injecting an effective amount of termiticide concentrate through the holes to exterminate any termites present. After the holes have been filled with the termiticide concentrate, they are sealed.

[00049] Trench digging and spear installation involve digging a narrow trench and then installing spears in the ground at the base of the trench. The trench is also waterlogged and the excavated soil treated with the termiticide concentrate of the present invention. The treated soil is then returned to the trench. The trench is typically dug in the area immediately adjacent to the side of the foundation wall. Spear installation in the ground consists of applying the termiticide concentrate through hollow tubes inserted into the ground around the base of the trench. The termiticide concentrate is applied as the spear is slowly moved downwards, allowing the termiticide concentrate to spread.

[00050] Although compositions and embodiments of the present invention are generally described with reference to the scope of application of the composition, it is understood that the compositions may be alternatively or additionally applied to any external target surface, such as landscaping materials, terrain distant from structures, products Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pp. 127 / 149 23 / 40 agricultural areas, including row crops, areas around fence posts or other wooden structures, and the like. For example, an agricultural sprayer can be used to apply the concentrate of the present invention to agricultural products. Generally, when spraying crops, the concentrate is applied at a rate of up to about 187,079 liters per hectare (20 gallons per acre).

[00051] It is also understood that the compositions of the present invention may be applied within building structures, including, for example, in empty spaces, cracks, crevices, enclosed spaces, hard-to-reach areas, footings / basements and the like.

[00052] The termiticide compositions and termiticide concentrates described herein and methods for controlling pests of the present invention are generally effective against a wide variety of pest populations. In several embodiments, the pest is an arthropod and, in others, an insect. The target pest may be selected from the group consisting of fleas, ants, cockroaches, beetles, centipedes, moths, crickets, spiders, millipedes, flies, mosquitoes, insects, moths, caterpillars, weevils, larvae, bed bugs, spiders, chiggers, cicadas, grasshoppers, root borers, stem borers, vine borers, fruit borers, leafhoppers, fruit worms, ticks, wasps, hornets, yellow jacket wasps, bees, millipedes, scorpions, pill bugs, woodlice, and the like. In a preferred embodiment, the pest is a subterranean termite, including termites of the species Retilictermes, Zootermopsis, Heterotermes, and Coptotermes. Definitions

[00053] As used herein, the terms “about and Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pp. 128 / 149 24 / 40 approximately indicates that a value is included within a statistically significant range. Such a range can typically be 20%, more typically 10%, and even more typically 5% of a given value or range. The permissible variation encompassed by the terms approximately and about depends on the specific system under study and can be assessed by someone skilled in the art.

[00054] As used herein, the term w / w designates the expression by weight, being used to describe the concentration of a specific substance in a mixture or solution.

[00055] As used herein, the term treatment or treating a condition, such as termite infestation, includes inhibiting an existing condition or halting its development; or improving or causing the condition to regress. The term preventing or preventing a condition, such as termite infestation, substantially includes blocking or inhibiting the development or growth of a condition before it manifests. Compositions that treat or prevent infestations, as defined in the present invention, preferably exhibit an efficacy of at least 90%.

[00056] As used herein, the term termiticide refers to a type of insecticidal composition or mixture comprising one or more pesticidal agents at a concentration capable of preventing, reducing, or eliminating termite infestations. In this respect, pesticidal agents may include phenylpyrazoles (such as fipronil) and neonicotinoids (such as imidacloprid).

[00057] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meanings. Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pp. 129 / 149 25 / 40 generally understood to be those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains on the filing date. If specifically defined, the definition cited herein takes precedence over any dictionary or extrinsic definition. Furthermore, unless required by the context, singular terms include the plural, and plural terms include the singular. In this invention, the use of "or" means "and / or," unless otherwise stated. All patents and publications cited herein are incorporated herein by reference.

[00058] The following examples are also intended to illustrate and explain the object of the present invention. The object of the invention should not be restricted to any detail in these examples. Example 1 - Method for Preparing a Termiticidal Composition Comprising Fipronil and Imidacloprid

[00059] A termiticide composition was prepared according to typical industry processing techniques, using the active termiticides fipronil and imidacloprid, as described above. Table 1 is a list of ingredients used in the preparation of a termiticide composition, comprising 6.6% by weight of fipronil and 21.4% by weight of imidacloprid. Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pages 130 / 149 26 / 40 Table 1 - Termiticide Composition Ingredient Quantity Concentration (by weight) Fipronil tec. (100%) 29.93 kg (66 lb) 6.6% Imidacloprid (100%) 97.07 kg (214 lb) 21.4% Soprophor FLK 13.60 kg (30 lb) 3.0% Aerosol OT-B 4.53 kg (10 lb) 1.0% Proxel GXL 0.45 kg (1 lb) 0.1% Propylene glycol 36.28 kg (80 lb) 8.0% SAG-30 0.90 kg (2 lb) 0.2% Kelzan S 0.90 kg (2 lb) 0.2% Water 269.88 kg (595 lb) 59.5% Total 453.60 kg (1000 lb) 100%

[00060] Three separate tanks were used in the preparation of the termiticide composition. The first tank (Tank 1) incorporated a two-bladed propeller agitator, with one blade near the base of the tank and the other blade about halfway up the propeller shaft to ensure good mixing throughout the batch. The second tank (Tank 2) was a small tank equipped with a propeller agitator. The third tank (Tank 3) incorporated a two-bladed propeller agitator in a similar arrangement to Tank 1. A mill (such as a Dyno-mill) using 2mm glass beads as grinding media was also used.

[00061] The termiticide composition was prepared by adding the following ingredients to Tank 1 in the following order: 269.88 kg (595 lbs) of water, 4.53 kg (10 lbs) of OT-B Aerosol, 13.60 kg (30 lbs) of Soprophor FLK, and 0.90 kg (2 lbs) of SAG-30. A Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pp. 131 / 149 Constant stirring was maintained during the addition of each ingredient. The contents of Tank 1 were mixed with moderate stirring for at least 15 minutes until homogeneous. 97.07 kg (214 lbs) of imidacloprid (powder) were gradually added to Tank 1 with constant stirring, taking care to minimize air introduction during the addition. Then, 29.93 kg (66 lbs) of fipronil (powder) were gradually added to Tank 1 with constant stirring, taking care to minimize air introduction during the addition. After the active ingredients were added, the contents of Tank 1 were mixed with moderate stirring for at least 30 minutes until homogeneous. The contents of Tank 1 were then passed through a mill and proceeded to Tank 3.

[00062] 36.28 kg (80 lbs) of propylene glycol followed by 0.90 kg (2 lbs) of Kelzan S were added to Tank 2 under constant stirring. Mixing continued until the ingredients were homogeneous. The contents of Tank 2 were pumped into Tank 3 and the combined contents were stirred moderately for 45 minutes until the batch was thick. The product was examined for color and homogeneity, with the desired product being a whitish suspension free of lumps / clumps. Example 2 - Method for Preparing a Termiticide Concentrate Comprising Fipronil and Imidacloprid

[00063] A termiticide concentrate can be prepared using the termiticide composition mentioned in Example 1.

[00064] Fill a tank equipped with a filling tube and pump to about one-quarter to one-third of its capacity with water. Turn on the pump to initiate the return (by-pass) agitation. Add an appropriate amount of composition. Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pages 132 / 149 Add 28 / 40 termiticide to the tank to prepare the desired dilution, as shown in Table 2. Add the remaining water. Continue operating the pump, allowing recirculation through the tube back to the tank until the termiticide composition is completely dispersed. Table 2 - Mixture Table Concentrated Emulsion Liters (Gallons) of Water Quantity of Termiticide Composition 0.067% 378.5 (100) 813.27 ml (27.5 liquid ounces) 189.25 (50) 408.11 ml (13.8 liquid ounces) 94.62 (25) 204.05 ml (6.9 liquid ounces) 3.78 (1) 8.87 ml (0.3 liquid ounce) 0.13% 378.8 (100) 1626.54 ml (55 liquid ounces) 189.25 (50) 813.27 ml (27.5 liquid ounces) 94.62 (25) 408.11 ml (13.8 liquid ounces) 3.78 (1) 17.74 ml (0.6 fluid ounce) 0.067% 37.85 (10) 80 ml 18.92 (5) 4 0 ml 7.57 (2) 16 ml 3.78 (1) 8 ml 0.13% 37.85 (10) 160 ml 18.92 (5) 80 ml 7.57 (2) 32 ml 3.78 (1) 16 ml Example 3 - Residual Efficacy Evaluations of Imidacloprid and Fipronil in combination or separately applied to Sandpaper / Filter Paper Substrates against Northern Hemisphere Subterranean Termites, Reticulitermes Hesperus

[00065] The test substances listed in Table 3 were obtained from LABServices. Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pp. 133 / 149 29 / 40 Table 3 - Test Substances Insecticide EPA Brand Reg. No. Net Weight Lot No. 21.4% imidacloprid Dominion® 2L 53883229 27.5 oz 23236 21.4% imidacloprid / 6.6% fipronil Imi-Fip SC N / A 27.5 oz ECS-29-113 9.1% Fipronil Termidor® SC 7969-210 71010011F1

[00066] Labeling rates were used for each test substance. Uniform rates for each test substance were adjusted to a 0.07% active ingredient dilution at an equivalence of 37.85 liters (4 gallons) per 0.93 linear meters per 0.30 meter depth (10 linear feet per foot depth), equal to 4.8 ml of diluted material per replicate: (1) 0.01% ai Dominion®2L (0.65 mL Dominion® in 200 ml of water); (2) 0.07% ai Imi-Fip SC (0.50 mL Imi-Fip SC in 200 ml of water); (3) 0.07% ai Termidor®SC (1.54 ml Termidor®SC in 200 ml of water); (4) untreated water control. The test insects were obtained and identified by Dr. Vernard Lewis (University of California, Berkeley).

[00067] Petri dishes were labeled with the study number, treatment group, treatment date, species, and replicate number. Five replicates were prepared per treatment group. 62 grams (equivalent to 45 ml) of washed and sieved sand were weighed into a 12-ounce plastic cup using a 600-gram Sartorius Basic balance. The sand was treated with 4.8 ml of the appropriate treatment and homogeneously mixed in the cup using a metal spatula. After the mixture was homogenized, the sand / treatment was transferred to the appropriate Petri dish and compressed using the bottom of a clean plastic cup. Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pp. 134 / 149 30 / 40 ounces. A 7.5 cm filter paper disc was placed on top of the treated sand, and approximately 30 subterranean termites of mixed population (soldiers and workers) were placed on the paper. The lids were placed on the Petri dishes, and the replicates were stacked according to the treatment. No further moisture was added to the Petri dishes for the remaining evaluations.

[00068] Bioassays were conducted at the facility under ambient conditions of temperature, relative humidity, and light. Termites were assessed for mortality at approximately the same time on days 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 of the assay. Due to the difficulty of assessing mortality in subterranean arthropods without disturbing the bioassay system, approximate numbers of live termites were recorded. Tunneling behavior and apparent repellency were recorded at each data point.

[00069] Both Termidor®SC and Imi-Fip SC were highly effective against subterranean termites. Termidor®SC demonstrated 100% mortality one day after treatment, while Imi-Fip SC demonstrated 98.0% mortality at the same assessment point. As shown in Table 4, the efficacy in the Imi-Fip SC test group reached 100% mortality on the second day of testing. While mortality was nearly identical in both Termidor®SC and Imi-Fip SC test groups, there were differences in feeding and tunneling behavior. Termidor®SC had no repellent activity, and the termites showed no aversion to the treated sand media and extensive tunneling throughout the substrate. The termites died both in the tunnels and on the surface. Imi-Fip SC showed no toxicity or behavioral activity, and almost all termites died on the surface. Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pages 135 / 149 31 / 40 of the sand substrate, with little short tunneling present.

[00070] Dominion® 2L caused very little mortality in the first four days of the evaluation period, with 18.0% mortality on the fourth day of the assay (Table 4). Dominion®2L affected the termites to the point that the insects avoided contact with the treated substance, demonstrating aggregation behavior on top of the filter paper. These termites did not demonstrate normal negative phototropism or consumption of filter paper, although subsequent mortality data revealed a reduction of only 67.3% on the seventh day of the assay. A high degree of aggregation behavior was observed in the bioassay system treated in all replicates treated with Dominion®2L. No tunneling was observed, and most termites remained on the untreated filter paper positioned on top of the treated sand media.Termites that came into contact with the treated sand appeared intoxicated, but not dead, and did not feed on the filter paper. The behavior of termites treated with Dominion®2L was lethargic and uncoordinated compared to the untreated control group. Table 4 - Average percentage mortality of subterranean termites from the Northern Hemisphere, Reticulitermes hesperus, with constant exposure to sand media treated with the selected termiticide formulations. Treatment Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5 Day 6 Day 7 Dominion®2L (0.02% imidacloprid) 8.0 10.7 17.3 18.0 42.7 40.7 67.3 Termidor®SC (0.07% Fipronil) 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 Imi-Fip SC (0.07% imidacloprid+fipronil) 98.0 100 100 100 100 100 100 H2o α 1.3 5.3 5.3 1.3 7.3 4.7 4.7

[00071] The two formulations containing Fipronil (Termidor®SC and Imi-Fip SC) demonstrated rapid termite mortality. Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pages 136 / 149 32 / 40 underground, with 100% and 98.0% mortality on the first day of testing, respectively. Termidor®SC did not alter the tunneling behavior of the termites.

[00072] The two formulations containing imidacloprid (Dominion®2L and Imi-Fip SC) demonstrated an absence of tunneling and feeding activity, while termites exposed to Imi-Fip SC also showed aversion to the treated substrate and clustered on the upper surface of the untreated filter paper.

[00073] Imi-Fip SC demonstrated an additive effect with the combination of imidacloprid and fipronil in relation to the absence of tunneling, termite feeding and high mortality rate, when compared with the compounds separately. Example 4 - Effects of Imidacloprid-Fipronil on Northern Hemisphere Subterranean Termites (Reticulitermes flavipes) and Formosan Subterranean Termites (Copotermes formosanus) in Thin Plate Bioassays

[00074] A laboratory study was conducted using freshly collected R.flavipes and C.formosanus termites. Thin plate bioassays were set up using 6 cm thick and 0.6 cm colorless Lexan glass sheets. A 20.3 x 66 cm glass sheet was used for the bottom. Two 2.5 x 61 cm glass pieces were placed along the edges and two 2.5 x 61 cm glass pieces were placed transversely at the ends. Each arena had 450 g of sieved sand applied evenly, moistened with deionized water to help keep it in place during arena construction. Fisher brand tongue retractors, cut in half, were used as a food source for the termites and placed at one end of the arena. Before adding Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pages 137 / 149 33 / 40 Lexan top sheets, 0.6cm holes were drilled at one end, and three 0.6cm treatment holes were drilled equidistantly along the centerline. An 8cm Petri dish, with a 0.6cm hole drilled in the bottom, was aligned with the hole at the end of the top sheet, and glued. The glue was allowed to dry for 72 hours. Large paper clips were used to hold the arena together.

[00075] Termiticidal solutions were prepared as described below: Fipronil 0.017%; Fipronil 0.03%; Imidacloprid 0.05%; Imi-Fip 0.067% (Imidacloprid 0.05%; Fipronil 0.017%); and untreated control (water only). Ten ml of each finished termiticide solution were applied to each arena: each of the three treatment holes received 3.3 ml of termiticide. The treatments were allowed to dry for 24 hours, and the treatment holes were sealed with a 2.5 x 7.5 cm microscope slide. In each Petri dish, 500 worker termites and 15 soldier termites were added, using the species R. flavipes or C. formosanus. Each treatment was replicated four times. Data regarding tunneling distance and mortality were collected over eight days. The data were analyzed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and the means were separated using Tukey's HSD (Honest Significant Difference test (IBM SPSS v 19)).

[00076] Results.There were significant differences (P=0.05) in mortality caused by treatments at different time periods for the two termite species. See Tables 5, 6. For R.flavipes, on day 3, all termiticide treatments caused at least 67% mortality, with 100% mortality on day 7. For C.formosanus, on day 3, all treatments... Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pages 138 / 149 Treatments 34 / 40 caused at least 15% mortality, with 100% mortality reached on day 8. Tunneling performed by both species was negatively affected by the treatments. Table 5. Average % mortality over time of Reticulitermes flavipes in thin-plate bioassays with selected termiticides. Treatment Days post-treatment 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Fipronil 0.017% 5.25a 30.50a 75.00a 77.50a 90.00b 95.50b 100.00a 100.00a Fipronil 0.03% 0.75b 2.25b 67.50a 70.00a 90.00b 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a Imidacloprid 0.05% 6.35a 12.00b 75.00a 80.00a 80.00c 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a Imi-Fipa 0.067% 7.25a 21.50ab 71.75a 71.75a 99.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a Untreated controls 0.00b 0.00c 5.2 5b 5.25b 7.75d 8.25b 8.25b 8.25b Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different (p=0.05) according to Tukey's HSD. aImi-Fip 0.067% = imidacloprid 0.05%, fipronil 0.017% Table 6 - Average mortality rate over time of Coptotermes formosans in thin-plate bioassays with selected termiticides. Treatment Days post-treatment 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Fipronil 0.017% 1.37a 8.62b 15.00a 30.60a 72.20a 72.20c 83.50b 100.00a Fipronil 0.03% 5.05a 17.25ab 19.75a 49.40a 70.50a 99.25a 100.00a 100.00a Imidacloprid 0.05% 0.80a 5.30b 23.25a 30.00a 55.00a 88.75b 100.00a 100.00a Imi-Fipa 0.067% 0.25a 20.00a 20.00a 25.00a 40.00b 52.50c 100.00a 100.00a Untreated controls 1.00a 6.25b 6.25b 10.50b 10.50c 10.50d 10.50c 10.50b Means followed by the same letter are not significantly different (p=0.05) according to Tukey's HSD. Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pages 139 / 149 35 / 40 aImi-Fip 0.067% = imidacloprid 0.05%, fipronil 0.017% Example 5 - Transfer effects of the termiticide Imi-Fip (imidacloprid-fipronil) between Coptotermes formosanus termites from Formosa and Reticulitermes flavipes subterranean termites

[00077] The purpose of this study was to determine if there was transfer of Imi-Pip between subterranean termite colonies. The arenas for this study consisted of a 15 cm Petri dish. The following treatments were used: Imi-Pip 50 ppm (imidacloprid 37 ppm and fipronil 13 ppm); imidacloprid 50 ppm; fipronil 50 ppm; untreated and labeled control (water only); and untreated and unlabeled control (water only). The three termiticide treatments were mixed using the formulated product: Imi-Pip was mixed with the manufacturer's low rate of 0.067% (imidacloprid 500 ppm and fipronil 170 ppm). The trial included four replicates of each of the following: donors (treated with 50 ppm of one of three termiticide formulations), recipients in the ratios of 1:19, 5:15, 10:10, 15:5, and controls. Marked and untreated donor and control termites were marked with RustOleum® Marking Ink using the methodology described by Keefer et al. 2012.

[00078] Two untreated soldier termites of each species were added to each arena to simulate colony dynamics. Post-treatment observations for mortality were conducted at 4 hours and then daily until day 7.

[00079] Results. For R.flavipes, at the four-hour mark, treatment with imidacloprid showed a mean total mortality of 27%; Imi-Fip showed a mean total mortality of 20%; and Fipronil, as well as marked and untreated controls, showed a mortality of 3.75%. Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pages 140 / 149 36 / 40 Imi-Fip showed a total mortality rate of 100% after three days; the individual treatments showed 100% mortality on day 7. For C. formosanus, the four-hour marking showed a total mortality rate of 34% for Imi-Fip; 9% for imidacloprid; and 1% for fipronil. On day 7, Imi-Fip had a mortality rate of 100%, while imidacloprid and fipronil were 97% and 90%, respectively. There were no significant differences between the mortality rates of the termiticide treatments on day 6 or 7 for any of the species. The results also show evidence of transfer of termiticides from donors to recipients, based on the observed mortality rates. See Tables 7-14. Table 7 - Average mortality rate of donors and recipients Reticulitermes flavipes over time with treatment Treatment 4h 1d 2d 3d 4d 5d 6d 7d Imidacloprid 5 0 ppm 27.18a 64.37a 64.37b 73.43b 73.43b 90.93a 98.43a 100.00a Fipronil 50 ppm 3.75b 23.51b 57.18b 70.31b 72.81b 83.75a 98.12a 100.00a Imi-Fipa 5 0 ppm 20.00a 89.68a 95.31a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a Marked not treatises 3, 75b 10.00b 17.50c 17.50c 17.50c 17.50c 17.50c 17.50c Unmarked Untreated 0.00c 0.00c 3.75d 3.75d 3.75d 3.75d 8.75b 10.00b aImi-Fip = imidacloprid-fipronil Means followed by the same letter in the same column are not significantly different (p=0.05) according to Tukey's HDS. Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pages 141 / 149 37 / 40 Table 8 - Average total mortality rate of Reticulitermes flavipes donors and recipients (treated with 50 ppm imidacloprid) over time according to the donor-to-recipient ratio. Proportion 4h 1d 2d 3d 4d 5d 6d 7d 1:19 10.00c 30.00b 30.00b 33.75b 72.50b 76, 25b 98.75a 100.00a 5:15 21.25bc 51.25b 51.25b 60.00b 71.25b 87.50ab 95.00a 100.00a 10:10 43.75a 80.00a 80.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 15:05 33.75ab 96.25a 96.25a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a MUa 3, 75d 10.00c 17.50c 17.50c 17.50c 17.50c 17.50b 17.50b UUb 0.00e 0.00d 3.75d 3.75d 3.75d 3.75d 8.75b 10.00b aMU = marked and untreated controls bUU = unmarked and untreated controls Means followed by the same letter in the same column are not significantly different (p=0.05) according to Tukey's HDS. Table 9 - Average total mortality rate of Reticulitermes flavipes donors and recipients (treated with 50 ppm fipronil) over time according to the donor-to-recipient ratio. Ratio 4h 1d 2d 3d 4d 5d 6d 7d 1:19 3.75a 10.00b 16.25c 22.50c 26.25c 52.50b 97.50a 100.00a 5:15 5.00a 17.50bb 53.75b 70.00b 72.50b 82.50a 95.00a 100.00a 10:10 1.25a 17.50b 71.25ab 88.75ab 92.50ab 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 15:5 5.00a 56.25a 87.50a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a MUa 3, 75a 10.00b 17.50c 17.50c 17.50c 17.50c 17.50b 17.50b UUb 0.00b 0.00c 3.75d 3, 75d 3.75d 3, 75d 8, 75b 10.00b aMU = marked and untreated controls bUU = unmarked and untreated controls Means followed by the same letter in the same column are not significantly different (p=0.05) according to Tukey's HDS. Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pages 142 / 149 38 / 40 Table 10 - Average total mortality rate of Reticulitermes flavipes donors and recipients (treated with 50 ppm ImiFip) over time according to the donor-to-recipient ratio. Ratio 4h 1d 2d 3d 4d 5d 6d 7d 1:19 3.75c 71.25b 81.25a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 5:15 23.75ab 91.25ab 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 10 :10 30.00a 96.75a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 15:5 22.50ab 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a Mua 3, 75c 10.00c 17.50b 17.50b 17.50b 17.50b 17.50b 17.50b UUb 0.00d 0.00d 3.75c 3.75c 3.75c 3.75c 8.7 5b 10.00b aImi-Fip = imidacloprid-fipronil aMU = labeled and untreated controls bUU = unlabeled and untreated controls Means followed by the same letter in the same column are not significantly different (p=0.05) according to Tukey's HDS. Table 11 - Average mortality rate of donors and recipients Coptotermes formosanus over time with treatment Treatment 4h 1d 2d 3d 4d 5d 6d 7d Imidacloprid 5 0 ppm 9.68b 32.50ab 52.50ab 67.18ab 76.25a 87.50a 96.25a 97.81a Fipronil 50 ppm 9.37b 50.62ab 53.12ab 59.68ab 67.81a 82.50a 85.50a 90.00a Imi-Fipa 5 0 ppm 34.06a 71.25a 83.12a 90.31a 97.50a 97.50a 98.12a 100.00a Marked untreated 0.00b 0.00c 5.00c 11.25c 12.50b 12.50b 16.25b 16.25b Unmarked Untreated 0.00b 0.00c 0.00d 1.25d 2.50c 2.50c 6.25c 6.25c aImi-Fip = imidacloprid-fipronil Means followed by the same letter in the same column are not significantly different (p=0.05) according to Tukey's HDS. Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pp. 143 / 149 39 / 40 Table 12 - Average total mortality rate of Coptotermes formosanus donors and recipients (treated with 50 ppm Imidacloprid) over time according to the donor-to-recipient ratio. Proportion 4h 1d 2d 3d 4d 5d 6d 7d 1:19 0.00b 1.25c 5.00c 33.75b 72.50b 82.50b 93.75a 95.00a 5:15 3.75b 12.50c 22.50b 37.50b 55.00c 67.50b 91.25a 96.25a 10:10 17.50a 85.00a 96.25a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 15:5 17.50a 31.25a 86.25a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a MUa 0.00b 0.00d 5.00c 11.25c 12.50d 12.50c 16.25b 16.25b UUb 0.00b 0.00d 0. 00d 1, 25d 2.50e 2, 50d 6, 25c 6.25c aMU = marked and untreated controls bUU = unmarked and untreated controls Means followed by the same letter in the same column are not significantly different (p=0.05) according to Tukey's HDS. Table 13 - Average total mortality rate of Coptotermes formosanus donors and recipients (treated with 50 ppm fipronil) over time according to the donor-to-recipient ratio. Ratio 4h 1d 2d 3d 4d 5d 6d 7d 1:19 0.00b 0.00b 8.75bc 18.75b 25.00b 30.00b 30.00b 60.00b 5:15 3.75b 2.50a 3.75b 20.00b 46, 25b 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 10:10 17.50a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 15:5 16.25a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a MUa 0.00b 0.00b 5.00c 11.25b 12.50c 12.50c 16.25b 16.25c UUb 0.00b 0.00b 0.00d 1.25c 2.50d 2.50d 6.25c 6.25d aMU = marked and untreated controls bUU = unmarked and untreated controls Means followed by the same letter in the same column are not significantly different (p=0.05) according to Tukey's HDS. Petition 870200095074, dated 07 / 30 / 2020, pp. 144 / 149 40 / 40 Table 14 - Average total mortality rate of Coptotermes formosanus donors and recipients (treated with 50 ppm ImiFip) over time according to the donor-to-recipient ratio. Ratio 4h 1d 2d 3d 4d 5d 6d 7d 1:19 2.50b 30.00b 50.00b 61.25a 90.00b 90.00a 92.50a 100.00b 5:15 37.50ab 55.00b 82.50ab 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 10 :10 33.75ab 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 15:5 62.50a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a 100.00a Mua 0.00c 0.00c 5.00c 11.25b 12.50b 12.50b 16.25b 16.25b UUb 0.00c 0.00c 0.00d 1.25c 2.50c 2.50c 6.25c 6.25c aImi-Fip = imidacloprid-fipronil aMU = labeled and untreated controls bUU = unlabeled and untreated controls Means followed by the same letter in the same column are not significantly different (p=0.05) according to Tukey's HDS

[00080] . Although the object described herein is subject to various modifications and alternative iterations, its specific embodiments have been described in greater detail below. It should be understood, however, that the detailed description of the termiticide composition is not intended to restrict the object of the present invention to the specific embodiments described. Instead, it is understood that the object of the invention encompasses all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives included in the spirit and scope of the invention, as defined by the claims.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. A method for controlling a selected pest of termites, cockroaches and ants, characterized in that it comprises applying to a location requiring control of termites, cockroaches or ants, a termiticide concentrate comprising: (1) a termiticide composition comprising active termiticides comprising fipronil and imidacloprid, wherein the composition comprises up to 70% by weight of total active termiticide; and (2) an aqueous medium; wherein the termiticide composition is dispersed in an aqueous medium to form the termiticide concentrate comprising from 0.05% to 0.5% by weight of the active termiticides, wherein the weight ratio of fipronil to imidacloprid is from 1:2.8 to 1:3.

3.

2. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the termiticide concentrate is applied in an amount of 3.78 to 37.85 liters (1 to 10 gallons) per 0.93 linear meters by 0.30 meters deep (10 linear feet per foot deep) of treated area.

3. Method, according to claim 1, characterized in that the termites are selected from the species Reticulitermes, Zootermopsis, Heterotermes and Coptotermes.

4. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the application of the termiticide concentrate comprises spraying the concentrate in the area requiring termite control.

5. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the termiticide concentrate comprises 0.038% to 0.38% by weight of imidacloprid and 0.012% to 0.12% by weight of fipronil.

6. Method, according to claim 1, characterized in that the termiticide concentrate is applied in an amount of 7.57 to 22.71 liters (2 Petition 870260024243, dated 03 / 16 / 2026, pp. 152 / 161 2 / 2 to 6 gallons) per 0.93 linear meters by 0.30 meters deep (10 linear feet per foot deep) of treated area.

7. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the termiticide concentrate is applied in an amount of 14.14 liters (4 gallons) per 0.93 linear meters by 0.30 meters deep (10 linear feet per foot deep) of treated area.

8. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the termiticide concentrate is applied as a pre-construction treatment.

9. Method according to claim 8, characterized in that the termiticide concentrate is applied in an amount of 3.78 to 5.67 liters (1 to 1.5 gallons) per 0.93 m2 (10 square feet) of treated area.

10. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the termiticide concentrate is applied as a post-construction treatment.

11. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the termiticide concentrate is applied to an open area containing agricultural products.

12. Method according to claim 11, characterized in that the termiticide concentrate is applied in an amount of up to 187.08 liters per hectare (20 gallons per acre).

13. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises adding a foaming agent to the termiticide concentrate, thereby forming a termiticide foam before application.

14. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the weight ratio of fipronil to imidacloprid in the termiticide concentrate is 1:3.24.