Insecticides are an effective way to control pest infestations, but with so many options on the market, it can be tricky to know which product is right for your needs. Two popular insecticide choices are Termidor SC and Taurus SC.
While both can help manage insects like termites, ants, and other pests, there are some key differences between these two products. This guide examines Termidor SC and Taurus SC in detail, including their ingredients, uses, effectiveness, and potential drawbacks.
Read on for an in-depth comparison of Termidor SC vs. Taurus SC to determine which option may be better suited for your situation.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Termidor SC | Taurus SC |
| Higher 9.1% fipronil concentration | 8.73% fipronil concentration |
| 10 year residual control | 5 year residual control |
| Faster knockdown & mortality | Slower knockdown than Termidor |
| Proven superior field performance | Still effective but some pest survival |
| Always applied as 0.06% dilution | Flexible 0.06% – 0.125% dilution |
| Requires pesticide license | Available to general public |
| Lower odor than Taurus | Slightly higher odor than Termidor |
| More expensive per gallon | Cheaper gallon pricing |
| 2-3 cents per square foot | 1-2 cents per square foot |
| Only available via pest pros | Sold online and in stores for DIY use |
Termidor SC
Termidor SC is a broad-spectrum termiticide and insecticide containing the active ingredient fipronil. It is manufactured by BASF and has been commercially available since 2000. Termidor SC works both as a preventative treatment to control future infestations and to eliminate existing pests.
Some key features of Termidor SC include:
- Broad insect control: Labeled to control a wide variety of common pests like termites, ants, cockroaches, mosquitoes, and more. Effective on subterranean, drywood, dampwood, and formosan termites.
- Non-repellent: Termidor SC is undetectable to insects. This allows insects like foraging termites to pick it up and spread it throughout the colony for maximum control.
- Long residual action: When used as a soil treatment, it provides up to 10 years of residual control against termites and ants when applied according to the label.
- Low odor and non-staining: Termidor SC is virtually odorless and will not stain painted or unpainted surfaces when applied as directed.
- Labeled for pre and post-construction: Can be applied as a preventative treatment before pouring concrete slabs, as well as a remedial treatment to control existing infestations in and around structures.
- Versatile application methods: Can be applied as a soil treatment, spot, crack and crevice, foam, and exterior perimeter spray. Approved for use indoors and outdoors.
Termidor SC is a popular choice with pest management professionals thanks to its effective control, flexible applications, and long-lasting residual action. It does require a professional pesticide license to purchase and apply.
Also Read: Differences Between Bifen IT And Bifen XTS Pesticides.
Overview of Taurus SC
Taurus SC is another non-repellent termiticide/insecticide containing 9.1% fipronil as the active ingredient. It is manufactured by Control Solutions Inc. While Taurus SC has a similar fipronil concentration and use pattern to Termidor SC, there are some differences between the two insecticides:
- Broad label uses: Can be used to control ants, cockroaches, mole crickets, and various beetles in addition to termites. Approved for interior and exterior use.
- Offers flexible dilution rates: Can be diluted to a 0.06%, 0.09% or 0.125% concentration based on the application situation. Termidor SC is always applied as a 0.06% dilution.
- Shorter residual: Provides up to 5 years of residual control against termites when applied to soil at the highest label rate. Falls short of Termidor SC’s 10-year residual.
- Does not require professional licensing: Taurus SC can be purchased and applied by non-professionals without a pesticide applicators license. Termidor SC does require a pesticide license.
- Lower odor than Termidor: The odor is less noticeable than Termidor SC when applied. Still virtually non-staining when applied according to the label.
While Taurus SC contains the same active ingredient as Termidor, its main advantage for some users is that it does not require a professional pest control license to purchase and use. The shorter residual and lower dilution rate options also appeal to some consumers.
Key Differences Between Termidor SC And Taurus SC Insecticides
Effectiveness
When considering effectiveness, Termidor SC is generally regarded as the more potent and reliable choice between the two insecticides. Here are some key factors:
- Higher fipronil concentration: Termidor SC contains 9.1% fipronil compared to Taurus SC which contains only 8.73% fipronil. The higher concentration makes it more effective against insects.
- Longer residual action: Ten years of control from Termidor SC versus five years from Taurus SC. The longer residual means fewer repeat treatments are needed over time.
- Faster knockdown and control: Termidor SC is regarded as providing faster knockdown and mortality of insects like termites due to the higher fipronil concentration. More thorough control with less insect survival or recovery.
- Better against difficult species: Termidor SC is considered more effective than Taurus SC against challenging species like formosan termites. There are fewer reported cases of termites avoiding soil treated with Termidor.
- Superior field results: Multiple field evaluations by researchers have shown that Termidor SC provides superior termite colony elimination compared to Taurus SC, especially at lower application rates.
While both products contain the non-repellent active ingredient fipronil, Termidor SC’s higher concentration, longer residual, faster knockdown, and proven field performance give it an edge over Taurus SC for overall efficacy.
Application and Use Considerations
There are some application and use differences between Termidor SC and Taurus SC beyond just effectiveness:
- Dilution rate: Termidor SC is applied at 0.06% dilution while Taurus allows 0.06% to 0.125% dilution rates based on application. Higher dilutions can improve control but reduce residual.
- Approved treatment areas: Taurus SC has a broader approved use list including mosquito misting systems, interior walls, and commercial animal housing. Termidor is limited to soil, structures, and exterior perimeter treatments.
- Professional vs. DIY use: Only licensed applicators can purchase and use Termidor SC. Taurus SC can be purchased and applied by non-professionals.
- Odor: Taurus SC has slightly lower odor than Termidor when applied. May be preferred for indoor use in sensitive areas.
- Accessibility: Termidor SC usually requires a pest control company for application. Taurus SC is sold to anyone through online and retail sources without restrictions.
While Termidor SC offers superior performance, the broader label flexibility and DIY accessibility of Taurus SC appeal to some users weighing convenience versus efficacy.
Safety and Environmental Considerations
Both products use the active ingredient fipronil which can pose risks if misused. It’s important to take proper safety measures and use caution when applying either Termidor SC or Taurus SC:
- Toxicity concerns: Fipronil affects the nervous system in insects but also mammals in high enough doses. Exposure precautions are required, especially for pets and handlers.
- Water contamination: Fipronil can leach through soils into groundwater if allowed to enter draining areas after treatment. Care should be taken during perimeter applications.
- Harmful to aquatic life: Highly toxic to fish and invertebrates. Avoid treating in areas where runoff may occur. Do not apply directly to water sources.
- Potential impact on bees: Fipronil can negatively impact bee populations that are critical pollinators. Carefully follow label precautions when treating.
- Proper PPE: Wear long sleeves, pants, gloves, and eye protection when mixing and applying to avoid exposure. Follow all label directions.
While very effective against insects, fipronil does have environmental and safety considerations that applicators must keep in mind with both Termidor SC and Taurus SC. Proper handling and application precautions are crucial.
Cost Comparison
When it comes to cost, Termidor SC is more expensive than Taurus SC but pricing can vary:
- Termidor SC: Approximately $200 per gallon when purchased by pest control companies in bulk. Higher concentrations mean lower volumes needed.
- Taurus SC: Around $100 per gallon when bought online in smaller volumes. Offered in both 1 gallon and 2.5 gallon packaging.
Price per square footage: Based on label rates, Termidor SC costs about 2-3 cents per square foot applied. Taurus SC is 1-2 cents per square foot treated.
Other costs: Termidor requires hiring a licensed pest control company which adds service fees.
Taurus can be self-applied as a DIY treatment for only the product cost.
While Termidor SC has a higher upfront product price, it provides longer residual control meaning fewer repeat treatments and service calls over time. This can balance out some of the higher initial costs for long term protection. DIYers may still find the lower price of Taurus SC more budget-friendly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No, Taurus SC is not the same formulation as Termidor SC. While they both contain fipronil, Termidor SC uses a higher 9.1% concentration versus 8.73% in Taurus SC. They are manufactured by different companies. Termidor is made by BASF, while Taurus SC is produced by Control Solutions.
Most industry data shows that Termidor SC works better than Taurus SC, especially at lower application rates. The higher fipronil concentration in Termidor provides better knockdown, mortality, and residual control. There are more documented cases of termites avoiding soil treated by Taurus SC compared to Termidor applications.
Termidor SC is a ready-to-use suspended concentrate liquid that contains 9.1% fipronil. The original Termidor termiticide was an 80WP powder formulation that had to be mixed with water before use. Termidor SC is easier to mix, measure, and apply consistently than the older powder.
Currently there is no true generic formulation that matches Termidor SC’s 9.1% fipronil concentration and residuals. Products like Taurus SC contain similar active ingredients but at lower percentages. Termidor SC is still under patent protection by manufacturer BASF in the United States, preventing generics for now.
Final Thoughts
When comparing Termidor SC and Taurus SC, Termidor SC clearly comes out on top for overall effectiveness against a wide range of insects like termites, ants, and other pests. It’s proven performance in the field plus 10 year residuals make it the go-to choice of professionals.
However, Taurus SC offers a more flexible label and accessibility for DIYers who want to save money on product costs and avoid hiring a pest control company. Both provide an inexpensive way to achieve long-lasting control, but Termidor SC remains the gold standard when maximum and consistent performance is needed.
Consider your specific needs and situation to determine if the premier results of Termidor SC or value flexibility of Taurus SC is the better option for your insecticide requirements.