The Main Types Of Termites

Unfortunately for us, termites can be found all over the world, and are just as destructive wherever you go.

The Main Types Of Termites

There are several types of termites, with each species being just as annoying and destructive as the last. 

Everyone must thus research, identify, and get familiar with these insects to prevent impending danger and damage to their home.

Hopefully, by the end of this piece, you will know everything about these little bugs. 

This article covers several termite species so that you can identify them and take the necessary precautions. Let’s go right into the specifics.

Subterranean Termites

Subterranean Termites

These termites are renowned for creating simple pathways to their food source.

Despite being so small that they measure just 0.33 millimeters in length, they are capable of unleashing destruction when the time is right.

Typically, these termite species shelter themselves from the air. Consequently, you will find them predominantly creating subterranean colonies.

Keep in mind that most termites like moist settings. The remaining underground termites enjoy the moisture that gathers around plant roots.

Their tones range from milky white to brownish hues of variable intensity. You typically will never see them as they don’t show themselves to people often.

If you keep up on house cleaning, you will never have to worry about seeing these little bugs in your home. 

Certain termite species, such as subterranean termites, may move so swiftly and invisibly that you won’t even realize their presence. 

Typically, these termites leave their trails underground. Therefore, if you observe mud piles in or near your home, you know what’s going on.

You may also determine whether these insects have infiltrated your home by searching for signs of infestation.

Small wings near the entranceway or on the bug itself indicate an insect’s entrance.

If this is the case, you should inspect the wood in your home to see if any of it is soft. If normally hard timbers become soft, swift intervention is essential.

In locations with constant cleaning, mature colonies do not develop. Therefore, if your property is unclean for lengthy periods, it is prone to termite infestation.

Remember that the biggest threat presented by subterranean termites is that they work in stealth mode and develop very rapidly.

In other words, they can drive you into substantial financial and property loss without notice.

To prevent termite infestation, it is necessary to eliminate standing water and excess moisture from the home. Avoid wet wood. Finally, conduct annual pest control.

Formosan Termites

Formosan Termites

Several termite species, especially Formosan termites, are thought to develop highly organized colonies. This means that within the colony, termites have specific roles.

Some are reproductive, some are aggressive, and there are also gatherers.

The appearance of these termite species may have some resemblance to that of subterranean termites, but there are noteworthy differences. These possess six legs and are very thin.

Even while these bad boys cannot be found everywhere, they are surprisingly common in Hawaii (Also check out Animals That Live In Hawaii), California, and Alabama, among other locations.

Are you unsure whether your place is contaminated? The first step is to evaluate the lighting in your home.

Termites will always swarm towards light sources if there is an infestation nearby.

You will come upon either discarded fans or termite carcasses. If none of these apply, you are ‘likely’ safe.

The Formosan termite species like wood. So, searching for hollow or rotting wood is another approach to finding infestation.

If you suspect an infestation based on the above signs, it’s time to schedule a pest control service.

Prevention is the strongest defense against these numerous termite species. And the first step in this approach is to evaluate the drainage along your property’s perimeter.

Determine if it attacks wooden planks or wooden fences if you meet one. In most cases, the infestation originates with damp wood. 

Lastly, you must be aware that Formosan termites are inherently antagonistic. They do not, like other termites, restrict themselves to the earth.

Termites with wings will climb large structures and infest several upper floors. This warrants both concern and care. We must remain vigilant.

Drywood Termites

Drywood Termites

If you’ve visited rural areas, you may have noticed micro balls or soil around small holes. These grains are termed excrement pellets, and they are the termite warning signal for dry wood.

These termites have a slender body and several wing types. In addition to tunneling below, they also fly to infest places at a greater elevation. 

With these termites, the number of Swarmers and Reproducers in the colony is substantial. That is, their colony growth is more agile than that of other termites.

Unlike others, these termites are not black in hue. They have a creamier color and may be distinguished quickly.

In contrast to many other termite species, dry wood termites are not attracted to wetness, so you may find them on a warm, sunny day.

Dry wood, such as firewood and waste wood, is an appropriate habitat for these species. This is the reason why they are known as dry wood termites. 

When tainted wood or furniture is handled carelessly, the colony grows. Therefore, the first step in protection is to avoid any wood that appears to be rotting.

You may avoid the pests by storing scrap wood at least 30 feet from your home.

If you have enormous trees on your property, you must remove any large branches that fall to the ground.

Finally, refrain from polluting your property with trash. It is very beneficial to maintain cleanliness and hygienic procedures.

Dampwood Termites

Dampwood Termites

This termite species is the only one that does not require soil. This doubles their importance and danger in comparison to all other termites on our list.

Without your notice, a group may be formed amid the planks of your hardwood bed frames.

They will create a colony if damp wood is discovered. Infestation begins on wet wood. Due to their ravenous feeding habits, they may also cause extensive damage to agricultural land.

Worse, the colony may be able to live within just a single piece of wood if it is suitably damp. 

These termites are easily distinguishable due to their rusty-brown color and tight caste system.

Therefore, if you see dung and wings with red termite traces, you will know who is responsible.

The simplest way to remove such an infestation is to discard polyethylene-wrapped and water-damaged boards.

Typically, contaminated wood is treated by burning or dumping.

However, if you foresee a significant infestation, contact pest control immediately. Ultimately, precaution is preferable to regret.

Summary

Termites are a very invasive species that can cause major damage to your home, no matter what subspecies you are dealing with.

It is much easier to prevent a termite infestation than to try and remove one, so do your best to keep your home clean and store wood away from your home.

If you already have a termite infestation, the best thing you can do is call pest control as they will be able to get rid of them all properly.

Olivia Kepner