Journal Publication: Post-treatment Feeding Affects Mortality of Bed Bugs Exposed to Insecticides

Published on Journal of Economic Entomology, this Rutgers University study tested whether bed bugs that feed after being sprayed with insecticides survive longer. Researchers compared EcoRaider (EcoVenger) to synthetic chemicals like deltamethrin.  

Key Results: 

- 100% Kill Rate, But Slower: EcoRaider (EcoVenger) eventually killed all bed bugs, but bugs that fed after treatment died more slowly (7.9 days for fed nymphs vs. 2.5 days for starved ones).  
- No Escape from Death: Unlike some pesticides (e.g., diatomaceous earth), feeding didn’t reduce EcoRaider (EcoVenger)’s final effectiveness—just delayed it.  
- No Feeding Disruption: Treated bugs ate normally, meaning they’d still bite humans post-treatment before dying.  

Why This Matters:

- Real-World Performance: Since bed bugs feed frequently in homes, lab tests that starve bugs after spraying may overestimate how fast pesticides work. EcoRaider (EcoVenger)’s 100% kill rate holds up even with feeding, but patience is needed.  
- Safety Advantage: EcoRaider (EcoVenger)’s natural ingredients avoid resistance issues linked to synthetic pyrethroids (like deltamethrin), which failed when bugs fed.  
- Limitation: Slower kill times mean bugs may bite longer. Combining EcoRaider (EcoVenger) with other methods (e.g., vacuuming) could speed up control.  

Takeaway:

EcoRaider (EcoVenger) is a reliable natural option for bed bug control, especially where chemical resistance or safety concerns exist. Its success isn’t ruined by feeding, but it works best as part of a multi-step plan.