Are termites an invasive species?

Are termites an invasive species? Several termite species are also significant economic pests, mainly in urban areas where they attack human-made structures, but also in natural forest habitats. Worldwide, approximately 28 termite species are considered

Are termites an invasive species?

Several termite species are also significant economic pests, mainly in urban areas where they attack human-made structures, but also in natural forest habitats. Worldwide, approximately 28 termite species are considered invasive and have spread beyond their native ranges, often with significant economic consequences.

How did Formosan termites get to us?

Formosan subterranean termites are an invasive species that is not native to the United States. These termites were introduced into the mainland United States in the 1940s and 1950s. Their primary conveyance was through infested crates and cargo returning from the World War II campaign in the South Pacific.

Can Formosan termites be eradicated?

Because of its population size and foraging range, the presence of Formosan subterranean termite colonies poses serious threats to nearby structures. Once established, Formosan subterranean termite has never been eradicated from an area.

What states have Formosan termites?

Also known as an introduced subterranean termite, the Formosan termite is found in states across the southern U.S., including Alabama, Florida, California, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, North Carolina, Texas and Tennessee.

What is the difference between subterranean and Formosan termites?

Formosan termites have a longer body and a shorter head with two short pinchers. The subterranean termites have long heads and bodies with long pinchers. Formosan termites have a translucent orange color while the subterranean species has a translucent gray/brown color.

Do Formosan termites lose their wings?

Mature Formosan Termite colonies produce termite swarmers that fly out of colonies by the thousands. One colony can produce 70,000+ termite swarmers in any given evening flying toward lights in and around homes with many crawling inside after dropping their wings.

Do Formosan termites eat concrete?

Contrary to popular myth, FORMOSAN SUBTERRANEAN TERMITES DO NOT EAT CONCRETE nor can the soldier’s defensive fluid dissolve holes in concrete.

What is the best treatment for Formosan termites?

the best way of treating Formosan termites is to dig a trench around the home and place the treatment in the trench to act as a barrier. Taurus SC is our go-to product to use as it is a non-repellent that will kill termites without them knowing it.

Do Formosan termites eat wood?

COLOR: Formosan swarmers are yellowish-brown. BEHAVIOR: Formosan termites are always hungry, and they eat wood. A lot of wood. They don’t care if it’s a dead tree on the ground, a live tree in your yard or the wooden structural components of your house.