Different Types of Termites
While no one wants to have any insect infestation in their home, a termite infestation may be the worst thing you could have. Each year in the United States, termite damage is discovered in around 600,000 homes and structures.
The cost associated with a termite infestation is extremely high, which is why it’s vital to learn about the different types of termites so you can identify them sooner than later.
Termites in the United States
Did you know? There are over 2,000 species of termites all over the world. Of that figure, 50 species live across the United States.
Termite species are divided into the following three categories:
- Subterranean termites
- Drywood termites
- Dampwood termites
Subterranean Termites
The most common type of termite found in every state except Alaska is the subterranean termite. This species lives typically underground or aboveground in moist secluded areas. Each of their colonies can contain close to two million members, making them the insects with the largest nests in the United States.
The subterranean termites will create distinctive pathways known as “mud tubes” to access food sources. This method allows them to protect themselves from open air and become the most destructive species in the U.S.
Some subterranean termite species include:
- Arid-Land subterranean
- Western subterranean
- Eastern subterranean (most common in Indiana)
Drywood Termites
Drywood termites will typically cause less damage than subterranean termites because their colonies are smaller. This species is found mainly in wood material like dead trees, structural timbers, or hardwood floors.
Another difference is that drywood termites do not require contact with soil since they don’t require as much moisture to survive. They also have large mouthparts and large sets of wings.
While none of the drywood termite species are familiar in Indiana, they can be found from traveling inside wooden objects. Some species include:
- Western drywood
- Southeastern drywood
- Desert drywood
Dampwood Termites
As the name suggests, dampwood termites are commonly found in heavily forested areas of the country because they survive in wood with high moisture content. For this reason, it’s less common to find them damaging homes or other manufactured structures which typically don’t have enough moisture for their liking. But keep an eye out for them if your home is located in an area that’s prone to flooding.
Some dampwood termite species include:
- Desert dampwood
- Nevada dampwood
- Pacific dampwood
Termites Function in a Caste System
Identification of termites may be more challenging because, even within the same species, they’re separated into these three different castes:
- Workers. Typically the smallest termites, the workers search and collect food and build and maintain the mud tubes and nests.
- Soldiers. The soldier termites have enlarged heads and large jaws to serve as a defense for the colony.
- Alates. Also known as the swarmers, these are the reproducers of the termite colony that leave the nest to create a new one.
The Best Protection Against Termites
While identifying termites early is best, the best protection against termites in Indiana is an annual inspection by the trained termite professional at YES Pest Pros, Inc. While there are signs to look out for to catch a termite problem early, they have been known to remain hidden until it’s too late.
If you fear the infestation of termites, contact us today for a free quote!
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