Anticoagulant rodenticides and resistance development in rodent pest species – A comprehensive review. (September 2020) - McGee, C.F.
Abstract: Anti-vitamin K (AVK) compounds are highly potent anticoagulants which are particularly effective for controlling rodent species populations. AVKs have been the most widely used chemical rodenticide option employed since the 1950s for the control of rodents infesting stored commodities and storage facilities, and also in a wide range of other scenarios. However, reports of AVK resistance in wild rodent populations are becoming increasingly common. This could potentially lead to a substantial reduction in AVK efficacy resulting in an impaired ability to manage rodent infestations in the future. The current state of knowledge regarding AVK resistance mechanisms in common pest species is still incomplete. This review draws together reported incidences of AVK resistance in the literature and the underlying mechanisms suspected of conferring resistance for the three main pest rodent species Rattus norvegicus, Rattus rattus and Mus musculus . The purpose of this review is to compare and contrast the underlying resistance mechanisms in these species and demonstrate how this should influence programs for monitoring and avoiding the development of AVK resistance in target rodent species. Highlights: Review of AVK rodenticide development and modes and mechanism of action in target species. Detailed description of the known resistance mechanisms and their presence in M. musculus, R. rattus and R. norvegicus . Recommendations for national assessments monitoring AVK resistance levels in wild rodent populations.