Sodium Fluosilicate as a Poison against the Hoppers of Locusta migratoria migratorioides, R. & F., in Nigeria

Abstract

(1) For the first time sodium fluosilicate has been tested as a poison against the hoppers of Locusta migratoria migratorioides. This poison was found to be as effective as sodium arsenite in baits when used at the same concentration, viz., 2·44%, but was slower in its action. When guinea-corn bran is used as the carrier it is necessary to add salt to the bait as an attractant; the reason for this is not known, fluosilicate baits containing sawdust, chopped hay and chaff from cereal crops respectively were effective without salt being added.(2) From an examination of the results of experimental work on the relative toxicities of sodium fluosilicate and arsenical compounds to domesticated animals in various parts of the world, it is concluded that the former is less toxic to stock, but that the increased degree of safety acquired through the use of sodium fluosilicate is not so great as is popularly supposed. A definite advantage of baits containing fluosilicate is that they are repellent to many animals, whereas baits containing sodium arsenite are attractive to stock.