What are the Types of Termites? What are the Sign of Termites? How Do You Keep Termites Away DIY?

Termites are little insects that live in big groups. They come in colours like pale brown or white and mainly stay in soil, underground, or in trees. Despite their small size, they can cause significant damage.

Their scientific name is “Isoptera,” and they are among the oldest insects on Earth. Termites work non-stop, eating wood and other cellulose materials. Luckily, there are various methods to control them.

But first, we have some fun facts about termites that you should know…

Fun Facts About Termites

Here are some interesting facts about termites:

1. Some termites can lay 15 to 20 eggs per minute.
2. Queen termites live longer than other termites, sometimes up to 350 years.
3. The estimated total weight of all the termites on Earth is 445 million tons, more than that of humans at 350 million tons.
4. There are around 2,700 termite species in the world.
5. Termites communicate by making vibrations. When soldiers sense danger, they tap on tunnel walls to alert others.
6. Termites are surprisingly clean pests, spending lots of time grooming each other to stay disease-free.
7. Termites live in a caste system, with different roles for each member. Worker termites provide food to soldiers and reproductive termites, while everyone else focuses on destroying wood.

Now that we’ve learnt something about them, let’s get to know them a little bit more.

What are the Types of Termites

Subterranean Termites

• • These are the most common termites, often found in building timbers, fallen trees, and branches in contact with the soil.
  • Subterranean termites need moisture to survive and build their nests in soil close to damp areas.
  • They create mud tubes to access their food source and protect themselves from the open air.

Formosan Termites

• • Formosan termites are the most aggressive and destructive termite species.
  • They nest inside building walls and form large colonies that can quickly damage property.
  • These termites are 12 to 15 millimetres long and are attracted to light, often building nests near windows and light fixtures.
  • Their aggressive nature makes them difficult to control.

Dampwood Termites

• • Dampwood termites infest wood with high moisture content and are larger compared to other termite species.
  • They are typically found outside in timber that’s in contact with soil and form small colonies.

Drywood Termites

• • Drywood termite colonies are relatively small, with fewer than 1,000 individuals.
  • As the name suggests, they infest dry wood and do not require moisture contact.
  • These termites nest in wooden roof materials and need high humidity for survival.

Conehead Termites

• • Formerly known as “Tree Termites,” they were renamed to dispel the misconception that they only live in trees.
  • Conehead termites don’t use tunnels for travel; they move on the ground like ants, spreading quickly.
  • They create nests with chewed wooden material on the surface.

Common Signs of Termite Infestation?

Termites are dangerous enemies for our house that should be exterminated, but how do we know if our house is infested by termites? Here are some signs that let you know your house is being eaten.

• Drooping and discolored drywall.
• Hollow sound when tapping on wooden structures.
• Crumbling and damaged wood.
• Mud tubes climbing the exterior of your house.
• Piles of discarded wings are left after swarming.
• Small pinpoint holes in the walls.
• Windows and doors that are difficult to open or close.
• Termite droppings, known as frass, are left behind.
• Live flying termites may be seen.

Inserting termite traps