Journal of Agriculture and Ecology Research International

Impacts and Management of Termites (Isoptera: Termitidae) among Smallholder Farmers In East Africa

Hillary M. O. Otieno *

Department of Plant Science and Crop Protection, University of Nairobi, P.O.Box 29053, Loresho Ridge, Nairobi, Kenya

*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.

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Abstract

• Effective termite management strategies should involve at least one of the following:
  • Provision of adequate food to deter termites from attacking crops.
  • Enhancing multiplication and proliferation of natural enemies (e.g. nematodes, fungus, bacteria, virus, ants, frogs, beetles and spiders).
  • Reduce vulnerability of crops through improved crop nutrition and water supply for vigorous growth.
  • Integration of termite-repelling crops and plants in the farms.
  • Killing of termites e.g. use of termicide, physical destruction of the mound, killing of the queen.
• In areas regularly affected by termites, scouting and control should be incorporated as regular components of seasonal crop production trainings.
• Particular emphasis should be given to non-chemical practices which have significant co-benefits such as enhanced soil health.
• Effective and long-lasting control is based on combination of chemical and non-chemical practices – dig out mounds, kill the queen then spray with termicide. For fields which experience termite attacks every season, farmers should dress seed with termicide before planting. These chemicals should be used judiciously to reduce negative impact to the environment and health risks to the farmers.

Keywords: Crop yield loss, chemical control of termite, integrated pest management, non-chemical control, termite management

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