Do Nematodes Effectively Control Fleas in Yards?

[Math Is Hard]

Has anyone tried using nematodes in their yard to control fleas? I was reading about it here.

http://www.fleabuster.com/Products/Biobusters/nematodes.html

The fleas seem to get worse every summer here and I am investigating every possible weapon I have against them.

 

[lisab]

I haven't tried the worms, but the flea powder works like magic. It's only for indoor use, though.

 

[Evo]

It may be a waste of money.


http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ig132

These nematodes are applied to the lawn as a spray and destroy the flea larvae (and other insects) by parasitizing them. They do not attack people, pets, or plants. This treatment should reduce flea populations if label directions are carefully followed. In fact, just spraying the yard with water is enough to reduce flea populations! The nematode treatment is probably not needed.

http://insects.tamu.edu/extension/bulletins/l-1738.html

Several kinds of predatory nematodes (a type of microscopic worm) are sold for outdoor flea control, but their effectiveness has not been well tested. Studies suggest that nematodes work best in sandy soils. Irrigate with 1/4 to 1/2 inch of water before and after application. This prolongs nematode survival and helps them move through the soil in search of flea larvae.

 

[Moonbear]

I'd be worried about unintended consequences of infesting your yard with parasitic worms. I'd want to know a lot more about the exact species of nematode and all known species it can parasitize once they're happily reproducing in fleas. I would also have to question how effective it is in really killing fleas. Afterall, the reproductive strategy of parasites usually involves keeping their hosts alive for a while until they can lay eggs and have them pooped out into the ground to be eaten by another host critter (sounds yummy, doesn't it?).

(Edit: Just saw Evo's post that they aren't parasites of fleas, but rather attack flea larvae...but still, how long is it going to take them to hunt down the fleas?)

Have you tried having a professional exterminator treat the yard? That's what my parents had to resort to doing (they live in FL, so similar problems of year-round warm climate to help them breed). You can't have your pets in the yard few a little while after treatment, so they arranged to have it done while they were on vacation.

I also got them some Revolution to spot on their dog while they were visiting (because I didn't want my cat getting fleas from their dog either). The combination seemed to work well of treating the yard and the dog. In your case, treating the cat. I would use Revolution during the heaviest flea season, since it kills eggs on the pet as well as the adult fleas, so you don't have to wait for eggs to hatch and fleas to bite before it works. Then, to prevent resistance to it, switch to the other formulations during the times of year when the fleas are less abundant (if you get that in your climate), like Frontline or Top Spot. Each one works differently. Some kill the fleas on contact, some require the fleas to bite first, and others kill even the eggs on contact.

The only other things to really do are just physical removal of the fleas. Brush and comb the cat as soon as she's comes indoors to remove any hitchhikers before they end up inside. Vacuum the cat's favorite spots often, since that's where the fleas are most likely to be hanging out too.

At least in temperate climates, the fleas go dormant during winter so we get a break from them. Warm climates are really tough for dealing with flea problems.

 

[LudusRex]

I am familiar with the use of nematodes for pest control, including for fleas. Nematodes are microscopic worms that are known to prey on fleas and other pests in their larval stage. They are a natural and environmentally friendly alternative to chemical pesticides.

There have been studies and field trials that have shown the effectiveness of nematodes in controlling flea populations. However, it is important to note that nematodes may not completely eliminate the flea problem, but rather help to reduce the population.

It is also important to ensure that the nematodes are properly applied and maintained in the yard, as they are sensitive to factors such as temperature, moisture, and sunlight. Additionally, nematodes may not be effective in areas with heavy foot traffic or where the soil is disturbed frequently.

Overall, using nematodes for flea control can be a promising option, but it is important to carefully follow instructions and consider other methods of flea control as well. Consultation with a pest control professional may also be helpful in determining the best approach for your specific situation.