What characteristics must baits have to be successful in treating termites?

The successful treatment of termites using baits relies on specific characteristics that ensure the baits are effective in controlling and eliminating termite infestations.

Baits should be non-repellent because if they were repellent, termites would avoid them, preventing them from consuming the bait. A slow-acting formulation is essential because it allows the termites to return to the colony and share the bait with other termites through their social behavior, ultimately leading to the extermination of the entire colony. Lastly, baits must be readily available for consumption; termites need to access these baits easily for them to be effective.

This combination of characteristics maximizes the likelihood of detecting and poisoning not just individual termites but also the broader colony, ensuring a more comprehensive treatment approach. The other options do not align with these fundamental principles of effective termite management.