Potential influence of leaf litter depth on effectiveness of granular carbaryl against subadult Ixodes scapularis (Acari: Ixodidae).

An application of carbaryl granules at the lowest recommended rate to the shrub layer of a forested residential community in late spring significantly reduced abundance of questing Ixodes scapularis Say nymphs throughout their peak activity period. Depth of leaf litter had no significant effect on the level of reduction, suggesting that granular carbaryl applied at relatively low rates can obviate the possible attenuating effects of leaf litter.