Subterranean termites are a common pest in the United States. They can cause extensive damage to homes and other buildings and can be difficult to get rid of. In this blog post, we will discuss the appearance, habitat, and threats posed by subterranean termites. We will also provide tips on how to protect your home from these pests.
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Identifying Subterranean Termites
Subterranean termites are a type of wood-eating insect. Subterranean termites reside in subterranean colonies or wet, isolated locations above ground, with populations of up to two million individuals.
The appearance of subterranean termites is determined by their colony’s caste. Soldier termites have strong mandibles, brown heads, and cream-colored bodies. Worker termites are cream-colored and 1/8 to 3/8 inches long.
Larger reproductive termites, which resemble winged ants and are about an inch long, round out the caste structure. The single, black vein that runs through the wings of reproductive subterranean termites distinguishes them from drywood termites.
Subterranean Termite Habits
Termites are social insects that live in colonies. A subterranean termite colony contains three distinct classes of individuals: reproductive, soldiers, and workers.
The primary job of the worker caste is to maintain the nest and care for the young. Soldiers defend the colony from invaders, while reproductives are responsible for mating and starting new colonies.
Subterranean termites live underground and travel via mud tubes to find food. They eat wood and other cellulose-containing items, same as other termite species. When the winged, reproductive subterranean termites swarm in the spring, they will fly out to create new colonies.
Ideal Habitat for Subterranean Termites
They prefer moist, warm environments and can be found in soil, under logs and stones, and around the foundations of buildings.
They build mud tubes to travel between their underground colonies and food sources. These tubes are often visible on the exterior of buildings, especially near ground level.
Subterranean termites require soil contact to survive and grow underground, which is why they construct their characteristic mud tubes (also known as termite tubes) to acquire access to food and shelter their colonies from the elements. These hardworking termites may even dig tunnels through concrete gaps.
Dangers of Subterranean Termites
Subterranean termites are a serious threat to wooden structures, as they can eat through the wood very quickly. If left untreated, they can cause significant damage to your home or building.
In addition, subterranean termites also pose a health risk. They can contaminate food with their feces and saliva, which can lead to respiratory problems and other illnesses.
Subterranean termites are the most damaging termite species, accounting for nearly all termite damage in Malaysia. Subterranean termites, which are capable of destroying whole structures, may cause financial catastrophe for families and companies.
Termites use their rough, saw-toothed jaws to bite off little pieces of wood one at a time, like shears.
Preventing Subterranean Termite Infestations
There are several things you can do to help prevent subterranean termite infestations in your home or building:
- Make sure there is no moisture accumulation around the foundation of your structure.
- Repair any cracks or gaps in the foundation or walls.
- Install a barrier system around the exterior of your structure.
- Keep trees and shrubs trimmed away from the house.
- Store firewood away from the house.
If you have an existing subterranean termite infestation, it is important to get professional treatment as soon as possible. Professional termite exterminators have the knowledge and experience to treat the problem effectively.
FAQ’s About Subterranean Termites
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about subterranean termites:
Where Do You Find Subterranean Termites?
Subterranean termites can be found in moist, warm environments such as soil, under logs and stones, and around the foundations of buildings.
How Long Does It Take To Get Rid of Subterranean Termites?
It typically takes a few weeks to get rid of subterranean termites. However, it may take longer in severe cases.
How Long Do Subterranean Termites Live?
A subterranean termite queen can live up to fifteen to seventeen years.
In Conclusion
Subterranean termites are one of the most destructive pests in existence. They can cause millions worth of damage to an area.
This blog post has informed you about subterranean termite facts that should not go ignored if you want your home protected against these destructive invaders.
If you have more questions in mind, call us today!