Types of Termites
Most people know termites as the little villains that eat away at wood and cause expensive damage to homes. While all termites are generally regarded in the same way, there are actually three major groups of termites that can be found in the United States. Drywood, Formosan and subterranean termites can all be found in American homes although drywood and subterranean termites are the most prevalent. Does this Spark an idea?
-
The Formosan Termite
-
The Formosan termite is a costly and destructive species of termite. They are often referred to as the Super Termite because of the extent of the damage they cause, as well as the large colonies that they build and the rapid rate at which they can ingest wood. They can be found in any of a variety of wooden structures, from house boats to office buildings.
Subterranean Termites
-
Subterranean termites, often called ground termites, are one of the more common species of termites found in the Untied States. They are often found in areas where wood is resting in or in contact with the soil. Moist soil is especially ideal of an environment for subterranean termites so if possible, termite prevention can help to keep a problem from ever occurring.
-
Drywood Termites
-
Drywood termites are about as commonly found as ground termites, but they thrive under very different conditions. This species of termite does not need a water source or soil to survive, as they can thrive within the wood fibers in a structure. These termites are especially difficult to get rid of as they can travel in crates, boats and other structures and infest new areas as they rapidly reproduce.
Identification
-
Whatever species of termite that it is you are dealing with, they are not too difficult to pinpoint. Many people think they look like ants, but they are very different from ants. They have soft bodies that can range anywhere from 1/16 of an inch long to 1/2 an inch long, depending on the species.
For the subterranean and Formosa species, a colony can be detected by the fecal matter that collects around the opening to their colonies, as workers kick it out to prevent it from collecting in the colony. Most worker termites are white in color, and they are the largest in the colony.
Termite Prevention
-
All species of termites can be prevented with the same methods. It is possible to have your home sprayed to prevent the little guys from moving in, and bait and termiticide can be used to exterminate all of them. Be sure to keep wood away from the ground with a tarp or by putting it on a patio or concrete blocks. If wood must be stored in or near the home, opt for treated wood that deters termites from moving in.
-
