What percentage of rodenticides in use today is classified as anticoagulants?

The correct answer indicates that 90% of rodenticides used today are classified as anticoagulants, which underscores the dominance of this category in rodent control strategies. Anticoagulant rodenticides function by disrupting the normal clotting process in rodents, leading to internal bleeding that ultimately results in mortality. This mechanism is not only effective but also allows for the rodent to consume a lethal dose over a period of time, which can reduce the likelihood of bait shyness.

Anticoagulants have become the preferred choice for many pest control professionals because they often require only a single feeding (in the case of second-generation anticoagulants) to achieve lethality, making them convenient and efficacious for controlling rodent populations. Moreover, their widespread use is supported by extensive research demonstrating their effectiveness and the availability of various formulations tailored to different environments and rodent species.

In contrast, while other types of rodenticides do exist, they account for a far smaller percentage of the market. These include acute toxicants that work quickly but may lead to increased risks of secondary poisoning of non-target species, reflecting an important consideration in integrated pest management. Thus, the overwhelming reliance on anticoagulant rodenticides signifies both their efficacy in achieving pest control goals