Who poisoned bed bugs and with what? - briefly
Professional pest‑control technicians eradicate bed bugs with synthetic pyrethroid insecticides such as permethrin or deltamethrin. In addition, they may apply desiccant powders like diatomaceous earth to enhance mortality.
Who poisoned bed bugs and with what? - in detail
The individuals responsible for eliminating bed‑bug infestations are primarily professional pest‑control operators, entomologists conducting laboratory studies, and public‑health agencies that issue treatment guidelines. These groups select toxic agents based on efficacy, safety, and regulatory approval.
The substances employed fall into several chemical categories:
- Synthetic pyrethroids – permethrin, deltamethrin, bifenthrin; act on nerve sodium channels, causing rapid paralysis.
- Neonicotinoids – imidacloprid, acetamiprid; bind to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, leading to overstimulation and death.
- Organophosphates – chlorpyrifos (restricted in many regions); inhibit acetylcholinesterase, disrupting neurotransmission.
- Carbamates – carbaryl; similar mode of action to organophosphates but with shorter residual activity.
- Desiccant dusts – diatomaceous earth, silica gel; abrade the insect cuticle, resulting in dehydration.
- Insect growth regulators – methoprene, hydroprene; interfere with molting, preventing development to reproductive stages.
In laboratory settings, researchers may also use spinosad and bifenthrin‑based formulations to assess resistance levels. Public‑health directives often recommend combined approaches: a residual pyrethroid spray followed by a desiccant dust to address hidden populations.
The selection process involves bioassays that compare mortality rates, resistance profiles, and residual longevity. Data from these tests guide the choice of the most effective compound for a given infestation.