MASA Pest Control Services

TERMITES

TERMITE (ORDER: ISOPTERA):

Subterranean termites are among the most destructive termite species in the world, primarily because they live underground and form large colonies that can cause significant structural damage to homes and buildings. They are social insects that live in highly organized colonies, consisting of a queen, king, soldiers, and workers. Subterranean termites are found across most regions of the world, with the highest concentrations in warmer, tropical, and subtropical climates.

Why Subterranean Termites Are Considered Pests in Homes and Other Environments:

  1. Wood Damage: Subterranean termites feed on cellulose found in wood and other plant materials. They can cause severe structural damage to homes by hollowing out wooden beams, floors, and walls.
  2. Mud Tubes for Protection: These termites construct distinctive mud tubes to protect themselves from predators and dehydration while traveling between their colony and food sources. The presence of these tubes on walls or foundations is a key sign of infestation.
  3. Hidden Infestations: Since they live underground and often feed on hidden wood structures, infestations can go undetected for long periods, leading to extensive damage before they are discovered.
  4. Rapid Reproduction: A queen termite can lay thousands of eggs in her lifetime, leading to rapid population growth. The large size of subterranean termite colonies makes them particularly difficult to control once established.
  5. Moisture Dependence: Subterranean termites require moisture to survive, which is why they are often found near foundations, leaking pipes, or areas with poor drainage.
Characteristics Eastern Subterranean Termite Formosan Subterranean Termite Western Subterranean Termite
Scientific Name
Reticulitermes flavipes
Coptotermes formosanus
Reticulitermes hesperus
Size
Workers are 3-4 mm; soldiers 4-5 mm; reproductive adults 9-10 mm
Workers are 3-4 mm; soldiers 5 mm; reproductive adults 12-15 mm
Workers are 3-4 mm; soldiers 5 mm; reproductive adults 10-12 mm
Color
Workers are creamy white; soldiers have brownish heads; reproductive adults are dark brown or black
Workers are creamy white; soldiers have orange-brown heads; reproductive adults are yellowish-brown
Workers are creamy white; soldiers have yellowish-brown heads; reproductive adults are dark brown
Habitat
Found throughout the eastern U.S., nesting underground or near wood sources
Found in southern U.S., particularly in warm coastal areas; forms large colonies
Found in the western U.S., often near moist, decaying wood
Reproduction
Queens can lay thousands of eggs over their lifetime, establishing large colonies
Known for their large colonies, which can contain millions of termites
Colonies are generally smaller than those of Formosan termites but still significant
Mud Tubes
Construct mud tubes along walls, foundations, and other structures for protection
Construct extensive mud tubes above and below ground
Construct mud tubes from soil to wood for moisture and protection
Wings
Reproductive adults have two pairs of equal-length wings
Reproductive adults have long, translucent wings
Reproductive adults have equal-length wings but are rarely seen indoors
Activity
Active year-round, though swarming occurs in the spring
Active year-round, swarming occurs in the late spring to summer
Active year-round, swarming generally occurs in spring or fall
Lifespan
Workers live 2-3 years; queens can live over a decade
Workers live 2-3 years; queens can live up to 15 years
Workers live 2-3 years; queens can live several years
Distinctive Traits
The most common species of subterranean termite in the U.S.
More aggressive and destructive than other species due to large colonies
Known for their ability to adapt to diverse environments, from arid to wet conditions

Signs of Subterranean Termite Infestation

  1. Mud Tubes:
  • Subterranean termites build mud tubes to protect themselves from the air and provide moisture as they travel between their nest and food sources. These tubes can often be found on foundations, walls, or in crawl spaces.
  1. Hollow-Sounding Wood:
  • As termites consume wood from the inside out, tapping on infested wood may produce a hollow sound.
  1. Swarmers:
  • Reproductive termites, or swarmers, may be seen near windows or light sources, especially during the spring or early summer. Their discarded wings are also a sign of an active infestation.

Prevention and Control

  1. Moisture Control:
  • Fix any leaking pipes or areas with poor drainage around the foundation, as moisture attracts termites.
  1. Wood and Soil Contact:
  • Ensure that wood structures, such as deck posts or siding, do not directly contact the soil to reduce the risk of termite entry.
  1. Regular Inspections:
  • Have annual professional inspections, especially in areas prone to termite activity. Early detection is key to preventing extensive damage.

      4. Chemical Barriers:

  • Chemical treatments and bait systems can help eliminate or reduce termite colonies. Consult pest control professionals for effective solutions.

REFERENCES:

  • Su, N.-Y., & Scheffrahn, R.H. (1990). “Economically Important Termites in the United States and Their Control.” Sociobiology, 17(1), 77-94.
  • Edwards, R., & Mill, A.E. (1986). Termites in Buildings: Their Biology and Control. Rentokil Limited.
  • Krishna, K., Grimaldi, D.A., Krishna, V., & Engel, M.S. (2013). Treatise on the Isoptera of the World. American Museum of Natural History.
  • Forschler, B.T., & Jenkins, T.M. (2000). “Subterranean Termite Behavioral Ecology: Foraging Strategies and Control Methods.” Urban Entomology, 25(2), 128-144.
  • Henderson, G. (2001). “Subterranean Termites: Their Prevention and Control in Buildings.” Louisiana State University Agricultural Center.
  • Su, N.-Y., & Tamashiro, M. (1987). “An Overview of the Formosan Subterranean Termite in the World.” In: Biology and Control of the Formosan Subterranean Termite. Honolulu: College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources.

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