Choice tests involve placing arthropods in an environment where they can freely choose whether to go between a treated surface or atmosphere and an untreated one.
Thereby, the efficacy can be measured by comparing the number of individuals that remain in each area at the end of the test.
No-choice test/Forced contact test
In no-choice tests, also known as forced contact tests, arthropods are exposed to treated areas with no untreated alternative available to them, being forced to come into direct contact with the treated surface.
In this way, their response can be measured to obtain information on the mortality rate of the biocide, as well as behavioural changes in the exposed arthropods.
Palatability test with bait products.
In palatability tests, bait formulations are presented to the arthropods, so their consumption, toxic effects and feeding behaviour can be recorded.
Factors such as the time taken for initial feeding, the amount of bait consumed, and the overall acceptance of the bait are taken into account, thereby providing information on the efficacy of the product.
