Termites are known to be one of the most devastating insects in the world, with their capacity to destroy up to five billion dollars worth of properties yearly. They eat nonstop during the day, feeding on wood - which is the usual material used in constructing houses - and this has caused much trouble to homeowners. If you’re starting to worry that you have unwanted guests in your abode, here are things you need to know about these pesky creatures.
What are the types of termites?
Commonly, these are the types of termites:
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Drywood termites
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Dampwood termites
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Subterranean termites
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Formosan termites
Additionally, they are categorized into their own caste system which dictate each termite’s role in a particular colony:
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Reproductive
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Soldiers
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Workers
What are termites’ body structure?
One common trait of all termites is their hard, saw-toothed jaws that function like cutters that are able to chomp off minuscule pieces of wood at a time. Aside from that, the variety of termites have differences in bodily features, such as the following:
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Drywood termites are about 3/8 of an inch in size and are pale brown
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Dampwood termites are often larger than drywood termites, between half an inch to 5/8 of an inch, and are more of a dark brown
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Subterranean termites, in length, are 1/8 to 1 inch and their bodies’ color ranges from light to dark colored brown
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Formosans are approximately half an inch long and have yellowish brown markings.
As you can see, because of their small body structures, they can enter cracks as small as 1/16 of an inch.
Moreover, look for wings of equal length and straight (not bent) antennae when distinguishing termites. Color and size will also depend on a termite’s function. For instance;
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Worker termites are tasked with food collection. They are color white and measure from 1/4 to 1/2 inch in length.
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Soldier termites have the duty to protect the colony from external dangers, and they also have white bodies but dark-colored heads. Their size can range from 2/3 to 3/4 inch.
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Reproductive termites who are responsible for procreation are either black or light-brown and range from 1/4 to 1/2 inch in length. Because they have wings and antennae, reproductive termites are often confused with flying ants. Wings that grow on sexually mature reproductive termites are useful for when they leave their original home and fly to make colonies of their own. Once a reproductive termite has found an ideal environment to establish a colony, it will shed its wings. That’s why when you see many discarded wings, know that an infestation might be on the works.
Where do termites live?
On average, a colony can be made up of 60,000-250,000 termites. This colony is usually found underground, most probably in the dark. That’s why termite infestations are frequently detectable in foundations and walls of houses. Types of termites also have inclinations when it comes to habitat like:
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Soil or moisture is not required for drywood termites to thrive. The nests and expansive tunnels they’ve built can cause a structural disintegration for a house. Hotter climates and areas where there aren’t severe winter conditions are ideal for drywood termites.
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Meanwhile, places near water or with high humidity are home for dampwood termites.
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Subterranean termites are the most common type of termites found in the majority of the US. They can live either underground or in humid areas above ground. They require moisture and cellulose to survive, which is why they are frequently found in places that get constant moisture such as bathrooms and kitchen areas, and even places with several cellulose products. But they will also transfer to venues with wood that’s directly in contact with soil or very close to the ground. What happens is that worker termites feed on wood, then go back to feed the rest of the colony.
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On the other hand, formosans are prevalent in tropical climates, specifically in southern states and other places with mild winters.
What do termites eat?
Generally, a colony of 60,000 can consume 5 grams of wood each day. During the spring, they feed on cellulose, an organic compound found in vegetative matter such as dead trees, wood, and plants. Termites are able to digest cellulose because of microorganisms and bacteria that live inside their stomachs. Each species also have their specific preference with food:
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Drywood termites generally feed on drywood (as their name implies), wallpaper and plastics.
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Dampwood termites feed on wood that’s dying or wood of houses with leaks in the pipes or the roof.
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The subterranean species are considered the most damaging termites as they eat all types of materials, not just wood, thus causing severe harm to the foundations, floors, beams, plumbing, and insulation in structures.
Knowing the types of termites and their physical features and debris, plus where they live and what they eat is essential in identifying if a termite infestation is transpiring in your home. Since it’s better to be safe than sorry, contact the pest control experts to determine if termites are already present in your home.
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