Leaf-cutting Ant Control Schemes in Paraguay, 1961–1977. Some Failures and Some Lessons

Abstract As a result of the failure of four leaf-cutting ant control schemes in Paraguay since 1961, a set of principles on which a fifth scheme was based are given. Some simple locally developed and manufactured toxic baits are described which it is thought are more suitable for poor and developing countries than some of the preceeding more sophisticated, complex or costly schemes. Examples from other countries are quoted of a complex scheme that failed and a simple scheme that is now in operation. It is suggested that the principles of the current Paraguayan scheme and the toxic baits developed for it may have wider application where leaf-cutting ants are a problem.