Kelderer, M. and Casera, C. (2008) The “Rodenator”: an efficient device for controlling field mice and root voles? In: Boos, Markus (Ed.) Ecofruit - 13th International Conference on Cultivation Technique and Phytopathological Problems in Organic Fruit-Growing: Proceedings to the Conference from 18thFebruary to 20th February 2008 at Weinsberg/Germany, pp. 335-338.
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Summary
Field mice (Microtus arvalis), wood mice (Apodemus sylvaticus) and root voles (Arvicola
terrestis) constitute a big threat to the organic apple orchards in South Tyrol. The use of
rodenticides on the fields is not allowed in organic farming. The fruit growers rely on the
help of different natural predators. If populations increase, the possibility of trapping and
gasifying with equipment which produces carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide remain.
Both methods are problematic. Trapping requires skill and time. Gasifying is not
unproblematic to the health of the user. Recently a device has been imported which is
used successfully in the United States to control different soil-dwelling rodents. In the
orchards of South Tyrol, various field trials were carried out to evaluate the efficacy of the
‘Rodenator’ in controlling field mice.
Summary translation
The fight against mice and voles in organic farming is still an unsolved problem. (Kelderer
et al. 2000, Walther et al. 2004)) Three years ago, a new device called Rodenator
(Manufactured by Meyer Industries) was introduced on the European market. This device
was developed in the USA and principally used against prairie dogs. According to the
manufacturer, it also works well against field mice and root voles. Propane-oxygen mixture
is fed into the mouse holes and subsequently exploded. The resulting blast is claimed to
kill the rodents.
To check the efficacy of this device, various tests were performed in test orchards. The
results of the treatments were monitored indirectly by checking the activity of the rodents.
Results were compared to gasification with a device from the manufacturer “Protect
Nature”.
| EPrint Type: | Conference paper, poster, etc. |
|---|---|
| Type of presentation: | Paper |
| Keywords: | root voles, field mice, Rodenator |
| Subjects: | Crop husbandry > Crop health, quality, protection Crop husbandry > Production systems > Fruit and berries |
| Research affiliation: | International Conferences > 2008: Ecofruit |
| Related Links: | http://www.ecofruit.net |
| Deposited By: | Tagung, Ecofruit |
| ID Code: | 13745 |
| Deposited On: | 24 Jul 2008 |
| Last Modified: | 12 Apr 2010 07:37 |
| Document Language: | English |
| Status: | Published |
| Refereed: | Peer-reviewed and accepted |
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