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Termites, a cousin to the cockroach, are troublesome for homeowners. Commonly titled the “silent destroyer,” termites often go undetected within the structure of a home or surrounding property without any immediate or obvious warning signs. While they are thought of as mostly consuming wood, they will feed on any cellulose-based plant materials and can thrive in any type of home.
Signs of an infestation include a swarm of winged ant-like insects in and around the home, cracked or bubbling paint, droppings, hollow-sounding wood (when tapped), mud tubes on structural surfaces, and discarded wings. These highly organized colonies thrive most where there are stacks of wood, wood structures near the ground, in damp soil, and in trees or shrubs near the home or building structure. Not to be underestimated, these destructive pests can cause significant property damage and require professional treatment.
There are four main classifications of termites that are generally recognized. The main differences between these termites lie in their preference for habitat and wood, geographic distribution, and even appearance, to name a few.
Regarding geographic distribution and its relation to different termite species, the most common termite found in Black Diamond Pest Control’s current service area (as detailed below) is the subterranean termite. As a full-service pest control company, we effectively eliminate all four types of termites listed and described below.
The most prevalent and notorious invaders in the United States, subterranean termites are a force to be reckoned with. These crafty critters construct some of the most extensive underground nests known in the insect world. Thriving in moist environments, they ingeniously build “mud tubes” to reach wood above the ground. These termites are not just wood connoisseurs; they are architects of destruction, capable of causing substantial structural damage to homes and buildings. At Black Diamond Pest Control, our termite division is well-acquainted with the subterranean termite. This type of termite is the most prevalent in our service area, which spans across four states: Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Ohio. Note: Our complete service area is fully defined towards the conclusion of this page.
Formosan termites, a particularly aggressive subset of subterranean termites, stand out as formidable pests in the United States. Originating from the Far East, and therefore not native to the Americas, these 'super termites' distinguish themselves from other subterranean species through their enormous colony sizes which can be 10X the size of a native subterranean termite colony. While sharing the underground nesting habit of their subterranean relatives, Formosan termites cause more extensive structural damage at a faster rate due to their voracious appetite for wood and breeding efficiency. In fact, Formosan queens can lay 1,000 eggs in one day. Furthermore, Formosans construct intricate mud tunnels to access wood above ground, often going undetected until significant damage is done. The Formosan termite is primarily found in the southern United States, with their presence most notably in states along the Gulf Coast.
The independent outlaws of the termite world, drywood termites, shun the need for soil contact or moisture that their subterranean cousins crave. These renegades find sanctuary in dry, unspoiled wood, from structural timber to your cherished furniture and even hardwood floors. Predominantly inhabiting warmer climates, they covertly colonize attic spaces, silently inflicting damage over time. Though their colonies might be smaller, don't underestimate their impact – drywood termites can hitch a ride with human-aided relocation, like moving furniture.
Meet the giants of the termite kingdom – dampwood termites. Larger than their termite brethren, they have a penchant for extremely moist wood. These termites are the less common intruders in homes, thanks to their thirst for high moisture levels, but they're not to be ignored. You’ll find them in water-compromised wood, from leaky structures to wood making ground contact, like fence posts. More prevalent in humid and coastal areas, dampwood termites remind us that water damage is a welcome mat for pests.
In summary, subterranean termites, including the highly destructive Formosan termites, are the most common termite types in the United States. They live in underground colonies, with Formosan termites being notorious for their large, aggressive colonies and rapid wood consumption. Both standard subterranean and Formosan termites are known for creating mud tubes for moisture while damaging wood. These mud tubes are a clear indication of their presence. Drywood termites, in contrast, inhabit and feed on dry wood, such as that found in attic framings. Dampwood termites, though less common, are the largest of the three termite classifications and can cause significant damage to outdoor wooden structures, especially in moist environments.
Besides differences in feeding habits, colony size, and habitat, a major distinction among the four termite types mentioned above lies in their appearance. However, appearance can vary even within termites of the same species. This adds a layer of complexity, but also introduces a crucial concept in understanding termites: the Caste System.
The termite caste system plays a pivotal role in the complexity of these pests. This system, a fascinating hierarchy within a termite colony, comprises three primary roles: workers, soldiers, and swarmers (or reproductives). Workers, often unseen, are the backbone of the colony, responsible for foraging, food storage, and nest maintenance. Soldiers, with their distinctly enlarged mandibles, fiercely protect the colony from threats. The swarmers, including a king and queen, are central to the colony's growth and survival, with the queen's sole purpose being to lay thousands of eggs.
Among workers, soldiers, and swarmers, appearances differ significantly. The key point is that distinguishing the differences in appearance among the four major termite types isn't as straightforward as saying subterranean termites look like X and dampwood termites like Y. Instead, to accurately describe the appearance of each termite type, it's essential to consider the specific role each termite plays within its species. This includes understanding the physical characteristics unique to workers, soldiers, and swarmers in each termite category.
Subterranean termites are typically creamy white to dark brown or black, with elongated, segmented bodies. They measure 1/8 to 1/2 inch in length, with straight, beaded antennae. Swarmers have two pairs of long wings, while workers and soldiers are wingless.
Formosan termites, a subterranean variant, range from creamy white to yellowish-brown, and are slightly larger than their relatives. They have robust, elongated bodies up to 5/8 inch long, with straight antennae. Swarmers possess two pairs of long wings; other castes are wingless.
Drywood termites display a pale brown to creamy beige color. They have stout, slightly elongated bodies about 3/8 to 1 inch long, and straight, beaded antennae. Swarmers have long, narrow wings; workers and soldiers are wingless.
Dampwood termites are dark brown, often with a reddish hue, and are the largest, measuring 1/2 to 3/4 inches for workers and soldiers, and larger for swarmers. They have robust, slightly flattened bodies, straight antennae, and long wings on swarmers. Workers and soldiers are wingless.
