Participatory monitoring of ecological and socioeconomic effects of harvesting and trading natural resources is advocated as a promoter of natural resource conservation and local communitiy empowerment. Nevertheless, the strategys success depends upon peoples willingness and availability to participate. Yet little is known about the factors that drive local communities to volunteer in participatory monitoring, particularly in relation to small-scale communities living in remote locations. This thesis investigated whether a number of candidate factors were able to predict peoples participation in monitoring. To do so, we conducted a study in a forest community of the Brazilian Amazon that harvested and traded Carapa guianensis (andiroba), a non-timber forest product (NTFP). Two methods of data gathering were employed: (i) an interview-based survey of 166 adults ( 18 y.o.; 51 households) to estimate peoples self-stated intention to participate and the drivers of their participation, and (ii) experimentally-implemented monitoring tasks of the effects of harvesting and trading C. guianensis to measure peoples actual participation. Results are presented in three chapters. In Chapter 1, we evaluated whether economic benefits received from the NTFP trade or, alternatively peoples cooperativeness, were more important in predicting peoples participation. Results indicated that both variables raised peoples intention and actual levels of participation in monitoring, but cooperativeness was a stronger and better predictor across monitoring tasks. In Chapter 2, we investigated the psychology of engaging in monitoring, departing from the theoretical framework of the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) for understanding whether the variables in the model were appropriate to predict the willingness to volunteer in monitoring tasks. We found that the TPB model, in general, was able to predict peoples intention to volunteer in monitoring tasks. Specifically, one of the attitude indicators (attitude pleasure) explained the intention to engage in all monitoring tasks assessed. Subjective norms were also important to predict the intention to collect data on natural resource populations and to interview community inhabitants, whereas perceived behavioral control predicted the intention to collect data on natural resources and to deal with data management and storage. Finally, in Chapter 3 we hypothesized that the awareness of ecological and socioeconomic impacts of NTFP harvest and trade should explain peoples participation in monitoring. Results indicated that both factors were important, particularly regarding to peoples actual participation, although factors such as gender, age and schooling were occasionally stronger predictors. Nevertheless, there is evidence that combining monitoring of ecological and socioeconomic factors will boost the practices success. The study conclusions contribute to lessons aimed at stimulating participation in monitoring. Among those, we highlight the importance of strategies to increase levels of cooperativeness among people, spreading information about the possible negative effects of natural resource harvest and trade, and granting financial compensations equivalent to the opportunity costs of participation. / O monitoramento participativo dos efeitos ecológicos e socioeconômicos da coleta e do comércio de recursos naturais é uma estratégia considerada promotora tanto da conservação ambiental, quanto do empoderamento das comunidades locais. O sucesso da estratégia, todavia, depende, sobretudo, da disponibilidade e disposição dos indivíduos em participarem. Apesar disso, sabe-se pouco sobre os fatores que determinam a participação voluntária no monitoramento, especialmente em comunidades de pequena escala habitantes de áreas remotas. Sendo assim, esta tese teve por objetivo investigar o efeito de determinantes da participação no monitoramento. Para tal, foi estudada uma comunidade da Amazônia brasileira que coleta e comercializa Carapa guianensis (andiroba), um produto florestal não madeireiro (PFNM). Dois métodos de coleta de dados foram utilizados: (i) survey por meio de entrevistas a 166 adultos ( 18 anos; 51 unidades domésticas) para estimar a intenção de participar e os determinantes da participação, e (ii) implementação de monitoramento experimental dos efeitos da coleta e do comércio de C. guianensis para quantificar a participação real no monitoramento. Os resultados são apresentados em três capítulos. No Capítulo 1, avaliamos se os benefícios econômicos obtidos com o comércio de PFNM ou, alternativamente, o comportamento cooperativo são determinantes mais importantes da participação. Os resultados indicaram que as duas variáveis aumentam a intenção e a participação real no monitoramento. Porém, o comportamento cooperativo foi um indicador mais forte da participação entre as diferentes atividades de monitoramento avaliadas. No Capítulo 2, investigamos os fatores psicológicos que afetam a participação, utilizando como base a Teoria do comportamento planejado (TCP) e avaliando o efeito das variáveis deste modelo sobre a probabilidade da participação voluntária no monitoramento. Os resultados indicaram que, em geral, o modelo da TCP é adequado para prever a intenção de participar em diferentes etapas do monitoramento avaliadas. Em particular, um dos indicadores de atitude (prazer) é capaz de explicar a participação nas quatro etapas de monitoramento. Normas subjetivas também foram importantes preditores da intenção de participar da coleta de dados da população de andiroba e entrevistar outros moradores da comunidade. Já o controle comportamental percebido previu a intenção de participar da coleta de dados sobre a população do recurso natural e a entrada e armazenamento de dados. No Capítulo 3, partimos da hipótese de que a percepção dos impactos ecológicos e socioeconômicos da coleta e do comércio de PFNM pode explicar a participação no monitoramento. Os resultados indicaram que a percepção dos dois tipos de impactos é importante, sobretudo para a participação real. Porém, outros fatores como gênero, idade e escolaridade são determinantes mais fortes da participação em algumas atividades. Ademais, encontramos evidências de que aliar o monitoramento de impactos ecológicos e socioeconômicos aumenta o sucesso da prática. As conclusões do estudo contribuem com lições práticas para aumentar a participação no monitoramento. Destacamos, dentre elas, a importância de estratégias para aumentar a cooperação entre os comunitários, a disseminação de informações sobre os possíveis impactos negativos da coleta e do comércio de recursos naturais, e o fornecimento de compensações financeiras equivalentes ao custo de oportunidade de participação

O uso múltiplo florestal é apontado na literatura científica como mais uma das estratégias win-win de conservação e desenvolvimento local. Porém, pode haver limitações, as quais ainda não foram totalmente elucidadas. A ausência de múltiplos produtos florestais não madeireiros (PFNM) disponíveis em um contexto local e a falta do interesse e capacidade das pessoas de coletarem tais produtos restringe o sucesso dessa estratégia. Este estudo teve, portanto, o objetivo de avaliar como diferentes fatores afetam esses aspectos citados e, consequentemente, a viabilidade da coleta de múltiplos PFNM, assim como o potencial de geração de renda monetária. Foram avaliados fatores ambientais, socioeconômicos, culturais e de percepção no contexto de sete localidades da Reserva Mamirauá, na Amazônia Central. A disponibilidade (ocorrência e abundância) dos PFNM fornecidos por cinco espécies de importância comercial na região (frutos de açaí, buriti e camu-camu, e sementes de andiroba e murumuru), o potencial econômico desses PFNM e os fatores ambientais foram avaliados no nível da localidade. O interesse e a capacidade das pessoas coletarem os múltiplos PFNM, bem como o fator de percepção (gosto pela coleta), foram avaliados no nível do indivíduo. Já os fatores socioeconômicos e culturais foram avaliados no nível da unidade doméstica. Para avaliar a disponibilidade, foram estabelecidos um total de 24 transectos entre as sete localidades, onde também foram estimados três fatores ambientais (radiação solar, topografia e quantidade de matéria orgânica no solo). O potencial econômico foi estimado a partir da abundância das espécies, da taxa anual da produção de frutos e sementes e do preço dos produtos. O interesse e a capacidade dos indivíduos de coletar, bem como os fatores socioeconômicos, culturais e de percepção (gosto pela coleta) foram estimados através de survey, por meio de entrevistas. Ao todo foram realizadas 195 entrevistas, sendo 75 no nível da unidade doméstica e 120 no nível do indivíduo. Notou-se que a ocorrência e abundância das espécies variaram entre as localidades, sendo que apenas E. precatoria e A. murumuru são abundantes em todas as localidades. Além disso, a disponibilidade dos PFNM também varia de acordo com a frutificação das espécies, que pode ser baixa em determinado ano. Portanto, a disponibilidade de PFNM pode ser o primeiro fator limitante para geração de renda monetária com a coleta de múltiplos PFNM. As variações nos fatores ambientais parecem afetar a concentração dos indivíduos das espécies, que possuem distribuição agregada. Em todas as localidades, a maioria dos indivíduos declarou interesse em coletar os cinco PFNM pesquisados, exceto o murumuru. Além das pessoas terem mais interesse em coletar os produtos que são mais consumidos e vendidos, o gosto pela coleta também é importante. Por último, a maioria dos indivíduos das sete localidades é apta a coletar todos os produtos avaliados, apesar das dificuldades envolvidas na coleta. Portanto, os resultados sugerem que os principais fatores limitantes para a coleta de múltiplos PFNM nas sete localidades da RDS Mamirauá estão relacionados a pouca quantidade de árvores ou palmeiras e à falta de interesse em coletar, que é desencadeada, por sua vez, pela falta do gosto de coletar, assim como pelo não costume de consumir e pela dificuldade de comercializar os PFNM. / The use of multiple forest resources has been pointed in the scientific literature as one of the most win-win strategies for conservation and local development. However, the limitations of this approach have not been completely determined. The unavailability of diverse non-timber forest products (NTFP) in a local context as well as the lack of motivation and ability of people to collect such products limits the success of this strategy. In this regard, our study aimed to evaluate the contribution of different factors to the above mentioned aspects, including the feasibility of the collection of multiple NTFP and its potential generation of monetary income. We evaluated the environmental, the socioeconomic, the cultural and the perception factors in seven sites of the central Amazon, at Mamirauá Reserve. In a local context, the economic potential and availability (presence and abundance) of NTFP provided by fruits and seeds of five important species found specifically in that region (açaí, buriti, camu-camu, andiroba and murumuru) were examined. In an individual level, we evaluated the personal motivation and ability of collecting the multiple NTFP, in addition to the perception factor (characterized by the pleasure of collecting). Further, we investigated the socioeconomic and cultural factors in the context of the domestic units. In order to measure the availability, 24 transects where established in seven Amazon sites. Environmental factors such as solar radiation, topography and the amount of organic compounds in the soil were also accessed. In order to estimate the economic potential, we considered the abundance of the species, the annual rate of fruits and seeds production and the product prices. To better address the individual motivation and ability in collecting the products and the socioeconomic, cultural and perception factors, surveys and interviews were performed. A total of 195 interviews were done: 75 at the domestic unit level and 120 at the individual level. Our study demonstrates that the presence and abundance of the species vary among the different localities, being the E. precatoria and A. murumuru the common species found in all the localities. Moreover, the availability of NTFP vary seasonally, according to the characteristics of fructification of every species. Hence, the availability of the NTFP might be the first limiting factor compromising the generation of monetary income. Changes in the environmental factors were found to affect the concentration of the individual of the species, which show an aggregated distribution. In all the localities, the vast majority of the subjects demonstrated to be interested in collecting the species, except the murumuru. We observed a higher motivation of people in collecting that products with a higher consumption and commercial rates. Finally, we found that a significant amount of subjects in the seven sites were able to collect all the products evaluated, regardless the difficulties underlain the collection process. In conclusion, our data suggest that the main limiting factors for the collection of multiple NTFPs in the seven localities of the Mamirauá RDS are related to a small number of trees or palms and the lack of motivation in collecting, which is triggered in turn by the lack of pleasure of collecting as well as for the non-habit of consuming and for the difficulty of commercializing.

This Master thesis has been performed at CTD- the Centre for Wood Technology and Design at the University of Linköping and has been carried out in Santa Cruz de la Sierra in Bolivia. The objective of this thesis is to study the mechanical properties and uses of Guadua chacoensis, a bamboo native to Bolivia. Throughout history, bamboo has been used in many countries for a variety of purposes. In Asia bamboo is an important raw-material for buildings and furniture. It is also used for making paper and for land rehabilitation and fuel. In South America many countries, among them Bolivia, have great potential to use bamboo in the same way. One of the key ideas with this Master thesis is to make a contribution to support the Bolivian economy and welfare by elucidate this, hitherto undeveloped, natural resource. This thesis is a Minor field study partly financed by Sida- the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency. During the field study theoretical studies were made, collecting local and international information about bamboo and Guadua chacoensis in particular. Laboratory tests were prepared and conducted at UPSA- the Private University of Santa Cruz de la Sierra and several localities of the plant were visited. Through tensile-, bending- and hardness test it is found that Guadua chacoensis is a flexible, medium soft material and is comparable with European oak when it comes to the tensile strength. This leads to the conclusion that this bamboo species, among other fields of applications, can be used for constructions, like houses and bridges, and furniture manufacturing. / Diese Diplomarbeit wurde durch das CTD- Zentrum für Holztechnik und Design an der Universität Linköping betreut und in Santa Cruz de la Sierra in Bolivien durchgeführt. Das Ziel dieser Arbeit ist es die mechanische Beanspruchung und die Anwendungen von Guadua chacoensis , einer bolivischen Bambusart, zu untersuchen. Bambus wurde in der Vergangenheit in vielen Ländern für die unterschiedlichsten Anwendungen wie zum Beispiel Häuser, Werkzeug, Möbel, Lebensmittel, Treibstoff und Papier verwendet. In meisten asiatischen Ländern ist Bambus ein wichtiger Rohstoff für kleine und mittlere Unternehmen. Damit werden Arbeitsplätze geschaffen, was der Bevölkerung hilft die Armutsgrenze zu überwinden. Auch in Lateinamerika haben viele Länder, wie zum Beispiel Bolivien, die Chance Bambus in der gleichen Weise zu nutzen. Ein zentraler Gedanke dieser Arbeit ist es daher eine Grundlage für die bolivische Wirtschaft zu schaffen damit dieser bislang kaum entwickelte Rohstoff genutzt werden kann. Diese Arbeit wurde von Sida- der Schwedischen Internationalen Entwicklungsorganisation, teilweise finanziell unterstützt. Im Rahmen der durchgeführten Studie wurden sowohl theoretische Aspekte betrachtet, als auch Versuche im Labor der privaten Universität von Santa Cruz de la Sierra durchgeführt. Des Weiteren wurden verschiedene Arten des Bambus in der Natur untersucht. Biege- Streck- und Festigkeitsversuche haben gezeigt, dass Guadua chacoensis ein flexibles und weiches Material ist. Von den Streckeigenschaften ist es mit europäischer Eiche zu vergleichen. Diese Ergebnisse führen zu der Schlussfolgerung, dass Guadua chacoensis für die Konstruktion von Häusern und Brücken, für die Herstellung von Möbeln und andere ähnliche Anwendungen eingesetzt werden kann. / Esta tesis ha sido realizada en el Centro de Ciencia de Madera y Diseño- CTD de la Universidad de Linköping y ha sido llevada a cabo en la ciudad de Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia. El objetivo de la tesis es estudiar los propiedades mecánicas y usos de la Guadua chacoensis, un bambú nativo de Bolivia. A lo largo de la historia, el bambú ha sido utilizado en muchas localidades del mundo en distintas aplicaciones, vale mencionar: viviendas, herramientas, muebles, alimentos, combustible, papel y para rehabilitación de la tierra. En casi todos los países Asiáticos el bambú es un recurso importante para empresas de tamaño pequeño y mediano, proporcionando empleo y contrarrestando la pobreza. En América Latina muchos países, incluyendo Bolivia, tienen potencial para aprovechar el bambú del mismo modo. Una de las ideas más importantes de la tesis es hacer una contribución para apoyar a la economía de Bolivia, la cual, hasta ahora, ha desarrollado muy poco este recurso natural. La tesis es un Minor field study parcialmente financiado por Asdi- la Agencia Sueca de Cooperación Internacional para el Desarrollo. Durante el Minor field study estudios teóricos fueron realizados, acumulando información nacional e internacional sobre bambú y Guadua chacoensis en particular. Para examinar los propiedades mecánicos de la Guadua chacoensis, pruebas de laboratorio fueron preparadas y efectuadas en la Universidad Privada de Santa Cruz de la Sierra. Asimismo, muchas áreas con bosques naturales donde crece la especie fueron visitadas. A través de pruebas de laboratorio de tracción, flexión y dureza ha sido demostrado que la Guadua chacoensis es un material flexible y de dureza media, comparable con el roble europeo cuando se trata de la fuerza de tracción. Eso tiene como resultado que la Guadua chacoensis, entre otros campos de aplicación, puede ser usada para construcciones, como casas y puentes, y para la manufacturación de muebles. / Detta examensarbetete har gjorts vid CTD- Centrum för Träteknik och Design vid Linköpings universitet och har utförts i Santa Cruz de la Sierra i Bolivia. Syftet med detta examensarbete är att studera de mekaniska egenskaperna och användningsområden för Guadua chacoensis, en boliviansk bambuart. Genom historien har bambu använts i en mängd olika applikationer såsom hus, verktyg, möbler, mat, bränsle, papper och land-rehabilitering. I de flesta asiatiska länder är bambu en viktig resurs för små- och medelstora företag vilket skapar arbetstillfällen och motverkar fattigdom. I Sydamerika finns många länder, däribland Bolivia, vilka har stora möjligheter att utnyttja bambu på samma sätt. En av huvudidéerna med detta examensarbete är att kunna gynna den bolivianska välfärden genom att belysa denna, hittills outvecklade naturresurs. Detta examensarbete är en Minor field study, delvis finansierad av Sida, styrelsen för internationellt utvecklingssamarbete. Under fältarbetet genomfördes teoretiska studier då internationell och inhemsk information om bambu, speciellt om Guadua chacoensis, samlades in. Olika områden där arten växer besöktes och hållfasthetstekniska tester genomfördes vid UPSA- Universidad Privada de Santa Cruz de la Sierra. Genom drag-, böj- och hårdhetsprovning har det påvisats att Guadua chacoensis är ett böjligt och medelhårt material med en draghållfasthet som är jämförbar med den för Europeisk ek. Detta gör att denna bambuart lämpar sig bland annat för konstruktioner, såsom hus och broar, samt möbeltillverkning.

<p>This Master thesis has been performed at CTD- the Centre for Wood Technology and Design at the University of Linköping and has been carried out in Santa Cruz de la Sierra in Bolivia.</p><p>The objective of this thesis is to study the mechanical properties and uses of Guadua chacoensis, a bamboo native to Bolivia. Throughout history, bamboo has been used in many countries for a variety of purposes. In Asia bamboo is an important raw-material for buildings and furniture. It is also used for making paper and for land rehabilitation and fuel. In South America many countries, among them Bolivia, have great potential to use bamboo in the same way. One of the key ideas with this Master thesis is to make a contribution to support the Bolivian economy and welfare by elucidate this, hitherto undeveloped, natural resource.</p><p>This thesis is a Minor field study partly financed by Sida- the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency. During the field study theoretical studies were made, collecting local and international information about bamboo and Guadua chacoensis in particular. Laboratory tests were prepared and conducted at UPSA- the Private University of Santa Cruz de la Sierra and several localities of the plant were visited.</p><p>Through tensile-, bending- and hardness test it is found that Guadua chacoensis is a flexible, medium soft material and is comparable with European oak when it comes to the tensile strength. This leads to the conclusion that this bamboo species, among other fields of applications, can be used for constructions, like houses and bridges, and furniture manufacturing.</p> / <p>Diese Diplomarbeit wurde durch das CTD- Zentrum für Holztechnik und Design an der Universität Linköping betreut und in Santa Cruz de la Sierra in Bolivien durchgeführt.</p><p>Das Ziel dieser Arbeit ist es die mechanische Beanspruchung und die Anwendungen von Guadua chacoensis , einer bolivischen Bambusart, zu untersuchen. Bambus wurde in der Vergangenheit in vielen Ländern für die unterschiedlichsten Anwendungen wie zum Beispiel Häuser, Werkzeug, Möbel, Lebensmittel, Treibstoff und Papier verwendet.</p><p>In meisten asiatischen Ländern ist Bambus ein wichtiger Rohstoff für kleine und mittlere Unternehmen. Damit werden Arbeitsplätze geschaffen, was der Bevölkerung hilft die Armutsgrenze zu überwinden. Auch in Lateinamerika haben viele Länder, wie zum Beispiel Bolivien, die Chance Bambus in der gleichen Weise zu nutzen. Ein zentraler Gedanke dieser Arbeit ist es daher eine Grundlage für die bolivische Wirtschaft zu schaffen damit dieser bislang kaum entwickelte Rohstoff genutzt werden kann.</p><p>Diese Arbeit wurde von Sida- der Schwedischen Internationalen Entwicklungsorganisation, teilweise finanziell unterstützt. Im Rahmen der durchgeführten Studie wurden sowohl theoretische Aspekte betrachtet, als auch Versuche im Labor der privaten Universität von Santa Cruz de la Sierra durchgeführt. Des Weiteren wurden verschiedene Arten des Bambus in der Natur untersucht.</p><p>Biege- Streck- und Festigkeitsversuche haben gezeigt, dass Guadua chacoensis ein flexibles und weiches Material ist. Von den Streckeigenschaften ist es mit europäischer Eiche zu vergleichen. Diese Ergebnisse führen zu der Schlussfolgerung, dass Guadua chacoensis für die Konstruktion von Häusern und Brücken, für die Herstellung von Möbeln und andere ähnliche Anwendungen eingesetzt werden kann.</p> / <p>Esta tesis ha sido realizada en el Centro de Ciencia de Madera y Diseño- CTD</p><p>de la Universidad de Linköping y ha sido llevada a cabo en la ciudad de Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia.</p><p>El objetivo de la tesis es estudiar los propiedades mecánicas y usos de la</p><p>Guadua chacoensis, un bambú nativo de Bolivia. A lo largo de la historia, el bambú ha sido utilizado en muchas localidades del mundo en distintas aplicaciones, vale mencionar: viviendas, herramientas, muebles, alimentos, combustible, papel y para rehabilitación de la tierra. En casi todos los países Asiáticos el bambú es un recurso importante para empresas de tamaño pequeño y mediano, proporcionando empleo y contrarrestando la pobreza.</p><p>En América Latina muchos países, incluyendo Bolivia, tienen potencial para aprovechar el bambú del mismo modo. Una de las ideas más importantes de la tesis es hacer una contribución para apoyar a la economía de Bolivia, la cual, hasta ahora, ha desarrollado muy poco este recurso natural.</p><p>La tesis es un Minor field study parcialmente financiado por Asdi- la Agencia Sueca de Cooperación Internacional para el Desarrollo. Durante el Minor field study estudios teóricos fueron realizados, acumulando información nacional e internacional sobre bambú y Guadua chacoensis en particular. Para examinar los propiedades mecánicos de la Guadua chacoensis, pruebas de laboratorio fueron preparadas y efectuadas en la Universidad Privada de Santa Cruz de la Sierra. Asimismo, muchas áreas con bosques naturales donde crece la especie fueron visitadas.</p><p>A través de pruebas de laboratorio de tracción, flexión y dureza ha sido demostrado que la Guadua chacoensis es un material flexible y de dureza media, comparable con el roble europeo cuando se trata de la fuerza de tracción. Eso tiene como resultado que la Guadua chacoensis, entre otros campos de aplicación, puede ser usada para construcciones, como casas y puentes, y para la manufacturación de muebles.</p> / <p>Detta examensarbetete har gjorts vid CTD- Centrum för Träteknik och Design vid Linköpings universitet och har utförts i Santa Cruz de la Sierra i Bolivia.</p><p>Syftet med detta examensarbete är att studera de mekaniska egenskaperna och användningsområden för Guadua chacoensis, en boliviansk bambuart. Genom historien har bambu använts i en mängd olika applikationer såsom hus, verktyg, möbler, mat, bränsle, papper och land-rehabilitering. I de flesta asiatiska länder är bambu en viktig resurs för små- och medelstora företag vilket skapar arbetstillfällen och motverkar fattigdom. I Sydamerika finns många länder, däribland Bolivia, vilka har stora möjligheter att utnyttja bambu på samma sätt. En av huvudidéerna med detta examensarbete är att kunna gynna den bolivianska välfärden genom att belysa denna, hittills outvecklade naturresurs.</p><p>Detta examensarbete är en Minor field study, delvis finansierad av Sida, styrelsen för internationellt utvecklingssamarbete. Under fältarbetet genomfördes teoretiska studier då internationell och inhemsk information om bambu, speciellt om Guadua chacoensis, samlades in. Olika områden där arten växer besöktes och hållfasthetstekniska tester genomfördes vid UPSA- Universidad Privada de Santa Cruz de la Sierra.</p><p>Genom drag-, böj- och hårdhetsprovning har det påvisats att Guadua chacoensis är ett böjligt och medelhårt material med en draghållfasthet som är jämförbar med den för Europeisk ek. Detta gör att denna bambuart lämpar sig bland annat för konstruktioner, såsom hus och broar, samt möbeltillverkning.</p>

No description available.

Community-based forest management (CBFM) offers a better strategy for controlling forest resource degradation while at the same time benefiting local communities. With few exceptions, CBFM had been largely neglected in South Africa in the past. Lately, community forestry has, however, gained impetus through changes in the programs of the Department of Water and Forestry. Despite such efforts, a preliminary survey in some districts of KwaZulu-Natal showed that only a small proportion of households were participating in CBFM. The reason behind the lack of household participation could be that the objectives of most CBFM programs were not in line with the values rural communities attach to forest resources. Some authors have recommended that understanding the values households attach to forest resources is crucial for framing strategies on implementing CBFM. This study, therefore, investigates the values households in KwaSobabili, New Reserve B and Gudwini rural communities of KwaZulu-Natal, in aggregate, attach to forest resources and the factors influencing households to participate in CBFM. The social choice approach was used to measure the values households attach to forest resources. Hundred and fifty-one (151) household heads were asked to give scores of relative importance to 21 forest products and services on a 5-point Likert scale. Principal Component Analysis was used to generate composite indices or factors representing the values households attach to forest products and services. Ordinary Least Squares regression was then employed to determine the factors influencing such valuation of forests. The Multinomial Logit model was used to estimate the determinants of household position/status on participation in CBFM. The results showed that households in the three communities, on aggregate, overwhelmingly attach anthropocentric values to forest products and services. This was interpreted to be due to the high levels of household poverty that is rampant among many rural households of South Africa. However, in addition to the anthropocentric values, rural households also attach cultural/moral/spiritual and non-use/option values to forests. No differences existed across the three communities in terms of the anthropocentric and cultural values households attach to forest. However, households in Gudwini (who were managing a natural forest) significantly attached more non-use/option values to forest. This was attributed to the fact that households in this community believed that the natural forests were their heritage and were obliged to pass them to their future generations. It was also found that the anthropocentric and cultural/moral/spiritual values households attach to forest resources influence the decision to participate in CBFM programs. Other socio-economic factors (especially those that influence household‟s dependency on forests and the opportunity cost of their time in managing those forests) such as gender of household head, household size, levels of household income, total amount of social grants, perception of forest degradation, access to electricity, and distance to the forests have also been found to influence the household‟s decision to participate in CBFM. The study recommended that, since poorer societies have more materialistic orientation towards forests, CBFM programs should target poverty alleviation/income generation as the central theme to enhance participation in CBFM. Moreover, local people who depend more on forests and those with a lower opportunity cost of their time in managing forests could be targeted to ensure sustainable CBFM programs. / Thesis (M.Sc.Agric)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2012.

Xylophagous borers and termites that damage "timber-in-service" cause millions of dollars loss annually throughout mainland Australia. I developed field-based feeding assays with practical relevance to preventative action and remedial treatment of infestations of xylophagous insects in the built environment. Essential to this work is facilitating a high termite risk by maintaining an environment conducive to sustained foraging by termites. Feeding assays conducted in low termite risk areas are unduly prolonged, with inherently erratic termite feeding responses. I successfully developed feeding assays with a high termite risk. To establish whether a physical barrier, retrofitted as a sleeve, could prevent termites from damaging wooden poles, eighty poles were established within Beerburrum State Forest, south-east Queensland, Australia. Poles within sets were interconnected with buried timber to facilitate a high risk to Coptotermes acinaciformis (Froggatt). Mesh sleeves to a depth of 1.5m did not prevent termite damage to the poles. Hoop pine Araucaria cunninghamii Ait. ex D.Don dowels ("dip-sticks") were useful termite monitoring devices on the poles. The depth of foraging by termites has implications for the effectiveness of retrofitted physical and chemical barriers in general. Timber quantity and quality has a pivotal influence on the aggregation of large numbers of feeding termites necessary for baiting work and for producing efficacy data of relevance to the protection of timber-in-service from termites. Seasonal variation in termite foraging was examined. Both C. acinaciformis and Coptotermes lacteus (Froggatt) were more active feeding in summer than in autumn. In general, mass loss followed mean ambient temperature. Suppression of C. acinaciformis feeding responses relative to C. lacteus during summer, particularly during January, is thought to be due to excessive temperatures in the containers attached to infested trees. Termite foraging behaviour and responses to both varying masses of softwood timbers and varying exposure times were investigated. The rate of mass loss was independent of the number of test specimens and appeared linear. Colonies regulate the number of foragers directly according to the mass of susceptible timber available. This phenomenon was exploited throughout the remainder of the thesis. Of particular significance was the considerable intra- and inter-specific variation in susceptibility of softwoods to C. acinaciformis and Mastotermes darwiniensis Froggatt. The sapwoods tested were susceptible, but the heartwoods were generally resistant to damage by termites. These data confirm that termites are discriminating feeders, and some more so than others. A novel methodology, developed to maintain an environment conducive to sustained foraging by termites during field-testing, is presented. Consistency in timber acceptance and susceptibility to termites is considered to be important in determining the frequency of inspection and the success of bait systems. I evaluate the termiticidal activity of the bait toxicants hexaflumuron and chlorfluazuron for the management of the subterranean termite C. acinaciformis in the field. The Sentricon Colony Elimination System with Baitube-devices containing 0.1% and 1% mass/mass (m/m) hexaflumuron bait toxicant in dry wood flour (Recruit) was successful in eliminating field colonies of C. acinaciformis. Similarly, the Exterra Termite Interception and Baiting System with cellulose-acetate powder containing either 0.05% m/m or 0.25% m/m chlorfluazuron (Requiem) eliminated C. acinaciformis. Indicators (including "dip-sticks") used to monitor colony health were reliable. By using C. acinaciformis, which builds mounds (epigeous nests) in northern Australia, I was able to avoid the use of multiple mark-release schemes to verify the effects of the bait toxicant on the termite colonies. Problems with multiple mark-release schemes, used elsewhere in the world, are discussed. I continued the focus on bait quality and placement by evaluating termite responses to two aspects of treated stakes, their attractiveness and their susceptibility. Three experiments were undertaken near Townsville and at Beerburrum, with Coptotermes and Schedorhinotermes. Whilst there were no significant differences in the rate of location and foraging, with respect to treatments, differences in foraging, with respect to C. acinaciformis and Schedorhinotermes seclusus (Hill) were significant. Coptotermes acinaciformis displayed greater foraging site tenacity than S. seclusus at Beerburrum. Increased consumption of bait, due to the addition of a phagostimulant, needs to be observed in the field before an increase in the efficacy of baits in a termite management program can be claimed. In Australia, softwood timbers are extensively used in building construction and are generally highly susceptible to damage by termites. I focussed on field feeding assays to test efficacy of borate-treated softwoods against termites and to define "adequate" protection thresholds. Laboratory and field data reported in the literature were confusing with regard to what constitutes "adequate" protection thresholds. The confusion was compounded by differences in termite species, timber species used and test methodology. Laboratory data indicated a borate loading of 0.5% m/m boric acid equivalent (BAE) would cause > 90% termite mortality and restrict mass loss in test specimens to 5%. Field data generally suggested that borate loadings in excess of 0.5% m/m BAE were required. The main contribution of the work to increasing our understanding of management options for termites in the built environment was in resolving the confusion between laboratory and field data for borate wood-preservatives. These apparently conflicting results were explained by the presence or absence of untreated feeder material in the test environment. In the absence of untreated feeder material, retention of 0.5% BAE provides adequate protection from Coptotermes sp., whereas in the presence of untreated feeder material, increased retentions are required. Furthermore, the retentions required increase with increased amounts of susceptible material. Some termites, Nasutitermes sp. and M. darwiniensis, for example, are borate-tolerant and borate wood-preservatives are not a viable management option. The lack of uniform standards for termite-test methodology and assessment criteria for efficacy across the world is recognized as a difficulty with research into the performance of wood preservatives with termites. The many variables in laboratory and field assays make "prescriptive" standards difficult to recommend. The use of "performance" standards to define efficacy criteria ("adequate" protection) is discussed. Whilst the majority of the work involves subterranean termites ("termites"), I examine the question of how to define a hardwood timber species as "not susceptible" to lyctine beetle damage. Aspects of the biology, behaviour and management of Lyctus brunneus (Stephens) are reviewed and a novel field sampling and testing protocol to establish lyctine susceptibility of timber species is presented. A sound understanding of the biology and behaviour of xylophagous insects in the field is essential to ensure that management options implemented in the built environment have a strong ecological basis. The success of this study in achieving stated aims, the need for further work and the implications for test methodologies in the field with practical relevance to infestations of xylophagous insects in the built environment are discussed.

Xylophagous borers and termites that damage "timber-in-service" cause millions of dollars loss annually throughout mainland Australia. I developed field-based feeding assays with practical relevance to preventative action and remedial treatment of infestations of xylophagous insects in the built environment. Essential to this work is facilitating a high termite risk by maintaining an environment conducive to sustained foraging by termites. Feeding assays conducted in low termite risk areas are unduly prolonged, with inherently erratic termite feeding responses. I successfully developed feeding assays with a high termite risk. To establish whether a physical barrier, retrofitted as a sleeve, could prevent termites from damaging wooden poles, eighty poles were established within Beerburrum State Forest, south-east Queensland, Australia. Poles within sets were interconnected with buried timber to facilitate a high risk to Coptotermes acinaciformis (Froggatt). Mesh sleeves to a depth of 1.5m did not prevent termite damage to the poles. Hoop pine Araucaria cunninghamii Ait. ex D.Don dowels ("dip-sticks") were useful termite monitoring devices on the poles. The depth of foraging by termites has implications for the effectiveness of retrofitted physical and chemical barriers in general. Timber quantity and quality has a pivotal influence on the aggregation of large numbers of feeding termites necessary for baiting work and for producing efficacy data of relevance to the protection of timber-in-service from termites. Seasonal variation in termite foraging was examined. Both C. acinaciformis and Coptotermes lacteus (Froggatt) were more active feeding in summer than in autumn. In general, mass loss followed mean ambient temperature. Suppression of C. acinaciformis feeding responses relative to C. lacteus during summer, particularly during January, is thought to be due to excessive temperatures in the containers attached to infested trees. Termite foraging behaviour and responses to both varying masses of softwood timbers and varying exposure times were investigated. The rate of mass loss was independent of the number of test specimens and appeared linear. Colonies regulate the number of foragers directly according to the mass of susceptible timber available. This phenomenon was exploited throughout the remainder of the thesis. Of particular significance was the considerable intra- and inter-specific variation in susceptibility of softwoods to C. acinaciformis and Mastotermes darwiniensis Froggatt. The sapwoods tested were susceptible, but the heartwoods were generally resistant to damage by termites. These data confirm that termites are discriminating feeders, and some more so than others. A novel methodology, developed to maintain an environment conducive to sustained foraging by termites during field-testing, is presented. Consistency in timber acceptance and susceptibility to termites is considered to be important in determining the frequency of inspection and the success of bait systems. I evaluate the termiticidal activity of the bait toxicants hexaflumuron and chlorfluazuron for the management of the subterranean termite C. acinaciformis in the field. The Sentricon Colony Elimination System with Baitube-devices containing 0.1% and 1% mass/mass (m/m) hexaflumuron bait toxicant in dry wood flour (Recruit) was successful in eliminating field colonies of C. acinaciformis. Similarly, the Exterra Termite Interception and Baiting System with cellulose-acetate powder containing either 0.05% m/m or 0.25% m/m chlorfluazuron (Requiem) eliminated C. acinaciformis. Indicators (including "dip-sticks") used to monitor colony health were reliable. By using C. acinaciformis, which builds mounds (epigeous nests) in northern Australia, I was able to avoid the use of multiple mark-release schemes to verify the effects of the bait toxicant on the termite colonies. Problems with multiple mark-release schemes, used elsewhere in the world, are discussed. I continued the focus on bait quality and placement by evaluating termite responses to two aspects of treated stakes, their attractiveness and their susceptibility. Three experiments were undertaken near Townsville and at Beerburrum, with Coptotermes and Schedorhinotermes. Whilst there were no significant differences in the rate of location and foraging, with respect to treatments, differences in foraging, with respect to C. acinaciformis and Schedorhinotermes seclusus (Hill) were significant. Coptotermes acinaciformis displayed greater foraging site tenacity than S. seclusus at Beerburrum. Increased consumption of bait, due to the addition of a phagostimulant, needs to be observed in the field before an increase in the efficacy of baits in a termite management program can be claimed. In Australia, softwood timbers are extensively used in building construction and are generally highly susceptible to damage by termites. I focussed on field feeding assays to test efficacy of borate-treated softwoods against termites and to define "adequate" protection thresholds. Laboratory and field data reported in the literature were confusing with regard to what constitutes "adequate" protection thresholds. The confusion was compounded by differences in termite species, timber species used and test methodology. Laboratory data indicated a borate loading of 0.5% m/m boric acid equivalent (BAE) would cause > 90% termite mortality and restrict mass loss in test specimens to 5%. Field data generally suggested that borate loadings in excess of 0.5% m/m BAE were required. The main contribution of the work to increasing our understanding of management options for termites in the built environment was in resolving the confusion between laboratory and field data for borate wood-preservatives. These apparently conflicting results were explained by the presence or absence of untreated feeder material in the test environment. In the absence of untreated feeder material, retention of 0.5% BAE provides adequate protection from Coptotermes sp., whereas in the presence of untreated feeder material, increased retentions are required. Furthermore, the retentions required increase with increased amounts of susceptible material. Some termites, Nasutitermes sp. and M. darwiniensis, for example, are borate-tolerant and borate wood-preservatives are not a viable management option. The lack of uniform standards for termite-test methodology and assessment criteria for efficacy across the world is recognized as a difficulty with research into the performance of wood preservatives with termites. The many variables in laboratory and field assays make "prescriptive" standards difficult to recommend. The use of "performance" standards to define efficacy criteria ("adequate" protection) is discussed. Whilst the majority of the work involves subterranean termites ("termites"), I examine the question of how to define a hardwood timber species as "not susceptible" to lyctine beetle damage. Aspects of the biology, behaviour and management of Lyctus brunneus (Stephens) are reviewed and a novel field sampling and testing protocol to establish lyctine susceptibility of timber species is presented. A sound understanding of the biology and behaviour of xylophagous insects in the field is essential to ensure that management options implemented in the built environment have a strong ecological basis. The success of this study in achieving stated aims, the need for further work and the implications for test methodologies in the field with practical relevance to infestations of xylophagous insects in the built environment are discussed.

Xylophagous borers and termites that damage "timber-in-service" cause millions of dollars loss annually throughout mainland Australia. I developed field-based feeding assays with practical relevance to preventative action and remedial treatment of infestations of xylophagous insects in the built environment. Essential to this work is facilitating a high termite risk by maintaining an environment conducive to sustained foraging by termites. Feeding assays conducted in low termite risk areas are unduly prolonged, with inherently erratic termite feeding responses. I successfully developed feeding assays with a high termite risk. To establish whether a physical barrier, retrofitted as a sleeve, could prevent termites from damaging wooden poles, eighty poles were established within Beerburrum State Forest, south-east Queensland, Australia. Poles within sets were interconnected with buried timber to facilitate a high risk to Coptotermes acinaciformis (Froggatt). Mesh sleeves to a depth of 1.5m did not prevent termite damage to the poles. Hoop pine Araucaria cunninghamii Ait. ex D.Don dowels ("dip-sticks") were useful termite monitoring devices on the poles. The depth of foraging by termites has implications for the effectiveness of retrofitted physical and chemical barriers in general. Timber quantity and quality has a pivotal influence on the aggregation of large numbers of feeding termites necessary for baiting work and for producing efficacy data of relevance to the protection of timber-in-service from termites. Seasonal variation in termite foraging was examined. Both C. acinaciformis and Coptotermes lacteus (Froggatt) were more active feeding in summer than in autumn. In general, mass loss followed mean ambient temperature. Suppression of C. acinaciformis feeding responses relative to C. lacteus during summer, particularly during January, is thought to be due to excessive temperatures in the containers attached to infested trees. Termite foraging behaviour and responses to both varying masses of softwood timbers and varying exposure times were investigated. The rate of mass loss was independent of the number of test specimens and appeared linear. Colonies regulate the number of foragers directly according to the mass of susceptible timber available. This phenomenon was exploited throughout the remainder of the thesis. Of particular significance was the considerable intra- and inter-specific variation in susceptibility of softwoods to C. acinaciformis and Mastotermes darwiniensis Froggatt. The sapwoods tested were susceptible, but the heartwoods were generally resistant to damage by termites. These data confirm that termites are discriminating feeders, and some more so than others. A novel methodology, developed to maintain an environment conducive to sustained foraging by termites during field-testing, is presented. Consistency in timber acceptance and susceptibility to termites is considered to be important in determining the frequency of inspection and the success of bait systems. I evaluate the termiticidal activity of the bait toxicants hexaflumuron and chlorfluazuron for the management of the subterranean termite C. acinaciformis in the field. The Sentricon Colony Elimination System with Baitube-devices containing 0.1% and 1% mass/mass (m/m) hexaflumuron bait toxicant in dry wood flour (Recruit) was successful in eliminating field colonies of C. acinaciformis. Similarly, the Exterra Termite Interception and Baiting System with cellulose-acetate powder containing either 0.05% m/m or 0.25% m/m chlorfluazuron (Requiem) eliminated C. acinaciformis. Indicators (including "dip-sticks") used to monitor colony health were reliable. By using C. acinaciformis, which builds mounds (epigeous nests) in northern Australia, I was able to avoid the use of multiple mark-release schemes to verify the effects of the bait toxicant on the termite colonies. Problems with multiple mark-release schemes, used elsewhere in the world, are discussed. I continued the focus on bait quality and placement by evaluating termite responses to two aspects of treated stakes, their attractiveness and their susceptibility. Three experiments were undertaken near Townsville and at Beerburrum, with Coptotermes and Schedorhinotermes. Whilst there were no significant differences in the rate of location and foraging, with respect to treatments, differences in foraging, with respect to C. acinaciformis and Schedorhinotermes seclusus (Hill) were significant. Coptotermes acinaciformis displayed greater foraging site tenacity than S. seclusus at Beerburrum. Increased consumption of bait, due to the addition of a phagostimulant, needs to be observed in the field before an increase in the efficacy of baits in a termite management program can be claimed. In Australia, softwood timbers are extensively used in building construction and are generally highly susceptible to damage by termites. I focussed on field feeding assays to test efficacy of borate-treated softwoods against termites and to define "adequate" protection thresholds. Laboratory and field data reported in the literature were confusing with regard to what constitutes "adequate" protection thresholds. The confusion was compounded by differences in termite species, timber species used and test methodology. Laboratory data indicated a borate loading of 0.5% m/m boric acid equivalent (BAE) would cause > 90% termite mortality and restrict mass loss in test specimens to 5%. Field data generally suggested that borate loadings in excess of 0.5% m/m BAE were required. The main contribution of the work to increasing our understanding of management options for termites in the built environment was in resolving the confusion between laboratory and field data for borate wood-preservatives. These apparently conflicting results were explained by the presence or absence of untreated feeder material in the test environment. In the absence of untreated feeder material, retention of 0.5% BAE provides adequate protection from Coptotermes sp., whereas in the presence of untreated feeder material, increased retentions are required. Furthermore, the retentions required increase with increased amounts of susceptible material. Some termites, Nasutitermes sp. and M. darwiniensis, for example, are borate-tolerant and borate wood-preservatives are not a viable management option. The lack of uniform standards for termite-test methodology and assessment criteria for efficacy across the world is recognized as a difficulty with research into the performance of wood preservatives with termites. The many variables in laboratory and field assays make "prescriptive" standards difficult to recommend. The use of "performance" standards to define efficacy criteria ("adequate" protection) is discussed. Whilst the majority of the work involves subterranean termites ("termites"), I examine the question of how to define a hardwood timber species as "not susceptible" to lyctine beetle damage. Aspects of the biology, behaviour and management of Lyctus brunneus (Stephens) are reviewed and a novel field sampling and testing protocol to establish lyctine susceptibility of timber species is presented. A sound understanding of the biology and behaviour of xylophagous insects in the field is essential to ensure that management options implemented in the built environment have a strong ecological basis. The success of this study in achieving stated aims, the need for further work and the implications for test methodologies in the field with practical relevance to infestations of xylophagous insects in the built environment are discussed.

Xylophagous borers and termites that damage "timber-in-service" cause millions of dollars loss annually throughout mainland Australia. I developed field-based feeding assays with practical relevance to preventative action and remedial treatment of infestations of xylophagous insects in the built environment. Essential to this work is facilitating a high termite risk by maintaining an environment conducive to sustained foraging by termites. Feeding assays conducted in low termite risk areas are unduly prolonged, with inherently erratic termite feeding responses. I successfully developed feeding assays with a high termite risk. To establish whether a physical barrier, retrofitted as a sleeve, could prevent termites from damaging wooden poles, eighty poles were established within Beerburrum State Forest, south-east Queensland, Australia. Poles within sets were interconnected with buried timber to facilitate a high risk to Coptotermes acinaciformis (Froggatt). Mesh sleeves to a depth of 1.5m did not prevent termite damage to the poles. Hoop pine Araucaria cunninghamii Ait. ex D.Don dowels ("dip-sticks") were useful termite monitoring devices on the poles. The depth of foraging by termites has implications for the effectiveness of retrofitted physical and chemical barriers in general. Timber quantity and quality has a pivotal influence on the aggregation of large numbers of feeding termites necessary for baiting work and for producing efficacy data of relevance to the protection of timber-in-service from termites. Seasonal variation in termite foraging was examined. Both C. acinaciformis and Coptotermes lacteus (Froggatt) were more active feeding in summer than in autumn. In general, mass loss followed mean ambient temperature. Suppression of C. acinaciformis feeding responses relative to C. lacteus during summer, particularly during January, is thought to be due to excessive temperatures in the containers attached to infested trees. Termite foraging behaviour and responses to both varying masses of softwood timbers and varying exposure times were investigated. The rate of mass loss was independent of the number of test specimens and appeared linear. Colonies regulate the number of foragers directly according to the mass of susceptible timber available. This phenomenon was exploited throughout the remainder of the thesis. Of particular significance was the considerable intra- and inter-specific variation in susceptibility of softwoods to C. acinaciformis and Mastotermes darwiniensis Froggatt. The sapwoods tested were susceptible, but the heartwoods were generally resistant to damage by termites. These data confirm that termites are discriminating feeders, and some more so than others. A novel methodology, developed to maintain an environment conducive to sustained foraging by termites during field-testing, is presented. Consistency in timber acceptance and susceptibility to termites is considered to be important in determining the frequency of inspection and the success of bait systems. I evaluate the termiticidal activity of the bait toxicants hexaflumuron and chlorfluazuron for the management of the subterranean termite C. acinaciformis in the field. The Sentricon Colony Elimination System with Baitube-devices containing 0.1% and 1% mass/mass (m/m) hexaflumuron bait toxicant in dry wood flour (Recruit) was successful in eliminating field colonies of C. acinaciformis. Similarly, the Exterra Termite Interception and Baiting System with cellulose-acetate powder containing either 0.05% m/m or 0.25% m/m chlorfluazuron (Requiem) eliminated C. acinaciformis. Indicators (including "dip-sticks") used to monitor colony health were reliable. By using C. acinaciformis, which builds mounds (epigeous nests) in northern Australia, I was able to avoid the use of multiple mark-release schemes to verify the effects of the bait toxicant on the termite colonies. Problems with multiple mark-release schemes, used elsewhere in the world, are discussed. I continued the focus on bait quality and placement by evaluating termite responses to two aspects of treated stakes, their attractiveness and their susceptibility. Three experiments were undertaken near Townsville and at Beerburrum, with Coptotermes and Schedorhinotermes. Whilst there were no significant differences in the rate of location and foraging, with respect to treatments, differences in foraging, with respect to C. acinaciformis and Schedorhinotermes seclusus (Hill) were significant. Coptotermes acinaciformis displayed greater foraging site tenacity than S. seclusus at Beerburrum. Increased consumption of bait, due to the addition of a phagostimulant, needs to be observed in the field before an increase in the efficacy of baits in a termite management program can be claimed. In Australia, softwood timbers are extensively used in building construction and are generally highly susceptible to damage by termites. I focussed on field feeding assays to test efficacy of borate-treated softwoods against termites and to define "adequate" protection thresholds. Laboratory and field data reported in the literature were confusing with regard to what constitutes "adequate" protection thresholds. The confusion was compounded by differences in termite species, timber species used and test methodology. Laboratory data indicated a borate loading of 0.5% m/m boric acid equivalent (BAE) would cause > 90% termite mortality and restrict mass loss in test specimens to 5%. Field data generally suggested that borate loadings in excess of 0.5% m/m BAE were required. The main contribution of the work to increasing our understanding of management options for termites in the built environment was in resolving the confusion between laboratory and field data for borate wood-preservatives. These apparently conflicting results were explained by the presence or absence of untreated feeder material in the test environment. In the absence of untreated feeder material, retention of 0.5% BAE provides adequate protection from Coptotermes sp., whereas in the presence of untreated feeder material, increased retentions are required. Furthermore, the retentions required increase with increased amounts of susceptible material. Some termites, Nasutitermes sp. and M. darwiniensis, for example, are borate-tolerant and borate wood-preservatives are not a viable management option. The lack of uniform standards for termite-test methodology and assessment criteria for efficacy across the world is recognized as a difficulty with research into the performance of wood preservatives with termites. The many variables in laboratory and field assays make "prescriptive" standards difficult to recommend. The use of "performance" standards to define efficacy criteria ("adequate" protection) is discussed. Whilst the majority of the work involves subterranean termites ("termites"), I examine the question of how to define a hardwood timber species as "not susceptible" to lyctine beetle damage. Aspects of the biology, behaviour and management of Lyctus brunneus (Stephens) are reviewed and a novel field sampling and testing protocol to establish lyctine susceptibility of timber species is presented. A sound understanding of the biology and behaviour of xylophagous insects in the field is essential to ensure that management options implemented in the built environment have a strong ecological basis. The success of this study in achieving stated aims, the need for further work and the implications for test methodologies in the field with practical relevance to infestations of xylophagous insects in the built environment are discussed.