| Subterranean Termite |
 |
While all termites have
long narrow bodies, they vary
greatly in appearance depending on the termite’s role in the colony.
Subterranean termite workers are pale cream-colored and 1/8-inch long;
soldiers
have elongated heads with pincer-like mandibles; and primary
reproductives
(commonly called “swarmers” and the termites most often seen in the
open) are
dark brown or black and 1 inch long, with large whitish
wings.
Subterranean termites live
underground and build
protective mud tunnels above ground to search for food. They will die
if
exposed to open air for prolonged periods. Attracted to moisture
(downspouts,
leaky hoses, etc.), they will enter a building anywhere there is direct
soil to
structure contact. Colonies contain up to 2 million members, organized
into
castes depending on tasks—workers, soldiers and reproductives.
Subterranean
termites swarm in the spring, when groups of reproductive termites go
off to
start new colonies.Like other
termite species, they feed on products
containing cellulose. Unlike other wood-destroying insects, termites
actually
eat the wood.Subterranean termites are by far the
most destructive species. They can collapse a building entirely,
causing
financial ruin for the owner. To help prevent termite infestations,
eliminate
wood contact with soil. Make sure at least four inches of foundation
can be
seen all around the home. Avoid water accumulation near your home’s
foundation.
Divert water away with properly functioning gutters, downspouts and
splash
blocks. Fix all roof and plumbing leaks as soon as
possible.
Options
for controlling existing infestations include placing a pesticide
barrier in
the soil to prevent access to wood structures, above-ground bait
stations, and
fumigating the entire structure.
