Subterranean termites are a type of termite that live in underground colonies and require contact with soil or moisture to survive. They are found in tropical and subtropical regions around the world, including South Florida.
Subterranean termites are social insects that live in colonies, which can range from a few thousand individuals to several million. The colony is composed of different castes, including reproductives, soldiers, and workers.
Reproductives are the winged individuals that leave the colony to mate and establish new colonies. After mating, the female lays eggs and becomes the primary queen of the colony. In some species, there may be multiple queens.
Soldiers have large, strong mandibles that they use to defend the colony against predators, such as ants. They are also responsible for sealing off any openings in the soil or wood to protect the colony from air currents and desiccation.
Workers are the most numerous caste and are responsible for all aspects of colony maintenance, including nest building, foraging for food, and caring for the young. They have a specialized digestive system that allows them to break down cellulose, the main component of wood, and derive nutrition from it.
Subterranean termites can cause significant damage to wooden structures, and their presence should be taken seriously. They tunnel underground and often enter structures through small cracks and crevices in the foundation or other entry points. Once inside, they can cause significant damage to wooden structures, including homes and businesses.
Control measures for subterranean termites typically involve treating the soil around the foundation with termiticides or using bait stations to eliminate the colony. Preventative measures include maintaining good drainage around the foundation, avoiding contact between wood and soil, and sealing any cracks or openings in the foundation to prevent termite entry.
In South Florida, subterranean termites are a particularly prevalent pest due to the region’s warm and humid climate, sandy soils, and abundance of wooden structures. It is important for property owners in South Florida to be aware of the potential for subterranean termite infestations and to take steps to prevent and detect them early on.