DO MORE WITH LESS!
When Termidor® HE High-Efficiency Termiticide was introduced to the market in 2012, it represented a major advancement in liquid termiticide technology and was developed to meet the evolving needs of pest management professionals (PMPs) seeking greater operational efficiency while maintaining reliable, long-term structural protection against termites.
Formulation and Chemistry
Termidor HE contains fipronil, a phenylpyrazole insecticide that acts on gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors in the insect nervous system. This interaction disrupts chloride channel function, leading to hyperexcitation, paralysis, and death of the target pest.
The formulation incorporates advanced polymer technology that enhances the movement and distribution of fipronil within the soil. This allows PMPs to establish a more uniform, continuous treated zone around structures, using less water and less labor than traditional liquid termiticide applications.
Application Methodology
A defining feature of Termidor HE is its "less means more" application approach. The product is designed to reduce water usage per linear foot, minimize the number of drill holes required for slab treatments, and reduce trenching during exterior applications.
The advanced polymer technology facilitates both lateral and vertical movement of fipronil in the soil, enabling effective coverage with fewer application points. This results in time savings and reduced disruption to landscaping, hardscapes, and building exteriors. Termidor HE does not require specialized equipment and can be incorporated into an integrated termite management program with other BASF approved solutions, including Trelona® ATBS Annual Bait Stations and Phantom® Termiticide/Insecticide.
The Transfer Effect and Non-Repellency
Termidor HE leverages the non-repellent properties of fipronil and its genuine transfer effect. Termites that come in contact with treated soil unknowingly acquire a lethal dose and transfer it to other colony members through social behaviors such as grooming, trophallaxis, direct contact, coprophagy, necrophoresis, burial, and cannibalism.
This secondary transfer enables fipronil to reach termites that may never directly contact the treated zone. The delayed toxicity allows exposed termites to remain active long enough to interact with others, maximizing distribution of the active ingredient throughout the colony and contributing to long-lasting structural protection.
An Integrated Termite Management Approach
In addition to Termidor HE and other Termidor brand formulations, termite baiting plays an important role in comprehensive termite management, particularly for ongoing colony suppression and long-term monitoring. Trelona® ATBS Annual Bait Stations utilize novaluron, an insect growth regulator (IGR) that disrupts termite molting, leading to gradual colony decline. Because novaluron acts through ingestion and transfer within the colony, Trelona ATBS provides a targeted, low-impact approach to termite control.
When used together, Termidor HE and Trelona ATBS address termites both at the structure and in the surrounding environment. Termidor HE establishes a continuous treated zone that intercepts foraging termites, while Trelona ATBS supports colony suppression and monitoring beyond the treated soil. These complementary technologies provide PMPs with a flexible, layered approach to termite management.
Performance and Efficacy
Field and laboratory studies have demonstrated that Termidor HE delivers enhanced soil mobility, allowing effective treatment even in challenging conditions involving variable soil types or complex construction features. The continuous treated zone created by Termidor HE intercepts foraging termites and initiates the transfer effect, resulting in high levels of efficacy and structural protection that meet or exceed industry standards.
Trelona® ATBS Annual Bait Stations further support termite management performance through ongoing research and field evaluation. Introduced to the market in 2018, extensive studies and recent field trials have demonstrated that the bait matrix can remain effective for five years or longer under field conditions. Continued data generation reinforces Trelona ATBS's ability to eliminate termite colonies over time, supporting the goal of long-term structural protection.
The option of using Termidor HE and Trelona ATBS together provides PMPs with the flexibility to design treatment strategies based on site conditions, customer needs, and long-term management objectives. This adaptable approach expands the professional "toolbox" and supports durable termite protection with confidence.
Operational Benefits
Termidor HE offers significant operational advantages, including reduced labor and time on site due to less drilling, less trenching, and less water usage. Its high-efficiency formulation is well suited for structures surrounded by extensive concrete, patios, and hardscapes, where drilling smaller, fewer holes allows effective treatment while minimizing property disruption. It is also ideal for basement structures, enabling treatment to depths of up to two feet with greater ease.
Because every structure is NOT created equal, Trelona® ATBS Annual Bait Stations provide additional operational flexibility. Certain site conditions—such as decorative or high-value patio tiles, finished surfaces, or areas where aesthetics are a priority—may limit or discourage drilling. In these situations, baiting allows PMPs to install stations around patios and other sensitive areas without invasive treatment.
In contrast, very large patios or expansive hardscapes may make bait placement less practical, where direct soil treatment with Termidor HE can be more efficient. The availability of both technologies allows PMPs to evaluate each site individually and select the most appropriate approach—or combination of approaches—based on construction type, access, and customer expectations.
Together, Termidor HE and Trelona ATBS provide adaptable options that help PMPs address a wide range of structural and environmental challenges while delivering effective, long-term termite protection.
Always read and follow label directions. Phantom, Termidor and Trelona are registered trademarks of BASF Agricultural Solutions US LLC.