Efficacy of a Biocidal Paint in Controlling Alphitobius diaperinus (Panzer) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) and Improving the Quality of Air and Litter in Poultry Houses

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Poultry meat production and consumption continue to grow worldwide; therefore, the safety of poultry products is a priority for consumers, producers, and governing authorities. Thus, it is essential to find an effective solution to maintain proper hygiene in poultry production. One such tool is a water-based slow-release biocidal paint that contains insecticidal and antimicrobial compounds. In this study it was assumed that biocidal paint could be useful in controlling insect pests such as Alphitobius diaperinus and reducing microbiological contamination of air and litter and have a beneficial effect on microclimate in poultry houses. The results suggest that the tested biocidal paint could be an effective alternative to other insecticides and disinfectants. Additionally, the research is of a practical nature and may be very useful for poultry producers in controlling A. diaperinus populations and maintaining proper hygiene in poultry houses. ABSTRACT: Effective disinfection and disinsection are the keys to successful operation of modern poultry farms and the safety of poultry products. The cleaning and disinfection of poultry houses are important aspects of farm hygiene management. The correct execution of all steps of cleaning, disinfection, and disinsection procedures and the use of appropriate products are crucial for the prevention and control of zoonotic and animal diseases. In this study it was assumed that a water-based slow-release biocidal paint could be useful in controlling insect pests such as Alphitobius diaperinus and reducing microbiological contamination of air and litter in poultry houses and have a beneficial effect on microclimate in poultry houses. Therefore, the locations of A. diaperinus in the poultry houses, the microbiological contamination of air and litter, as well as the microclimatic conditions in the houses and the physicochemical parameters of the litter were evaluated. The results suggest that the tested biocidal paint could be an effective alternative to other insecticides and disinfectants. Additionally, the research is of a practical nature and may be very useful for poultry producers in controlling A. diaperinus populations and maintaining proper hygiene in poultry houses. Further research is needed.