Enhanced termite resistance of Simarouba amara wood with tropical extractives treatment against Nasutitermes (Isoptera: Termitidae).

This article focuses on evaluating the effectiveness of natural extractives from the wood and bark of tropical Amazonian species—Bagassa guianensis (tatajuba), Carapa guianensis (andiroba), Cedrelinga catenaeformis (cedrorana), and Dipteryx odorata (cumaru)—in protecting Simarouba amara (marupá) wood against termite attacks by the genus Nasutitermes. Laboratory tests demonstrated that these natural extractives significantly reduced termite-induced degradation, with some treatments performing comparably to the chemical preservative chromated copper arsenate (CCA). Phytochemical analyses identified phenolic, terpenoid, and nitrogenous compounds in the extracts, which likely contribute to their toxic and repellent effects on termites. The study highlights the potential of these natural compounds as sustainable, environmentally friendly alternatives to synthetic wood preservatives, while recommending further research on their long-term efficacy and mechanisms of action under field conditions.