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Subterranean Termites

Identification

Behaviour

Signs of Infestation

Health Risks

Control Methods

Subterranean Termite Species in Sri Lanka:

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Subterranean termites are some of the most destructive pests in Sri Lanka, silently munching away at wooden structures.

Identification

  • Physical description: Subterranean termites are social insects, living in colonies with different castes (workers, soldiers, reproductives). Workers are pale and blind, around 6mm long. Soldiers have large heads and mandibles for defense. Alates (swarmers) are dark-colored, winged termites that leave the colony to reproduce.
  • Habitat: Subterranean termites live underground in soil and build mud tubes to travel between their nest and food sources (wood). They require moisture and are often found near foundations or areas with leaking water.
  • Feeding habits: Subterranean termites feed on cellulose, the main component of wood. They can eat through wood undetected from the inside out, leaving only a thin shell.

Behaviour

  • Life cycle: A colony contains a queen, king, soldiers, workers, and reproductives (alates). The queen lays eggs, ensuring colony survival. Workers forage for food and maintain the nest. Soldiers defend the colony. Alates leave the colony to establish new ones.
  • Activity patterns: Subterranean termites are most active at night or during periods of high humidity. They are constantly foraging for food and can travel long distances underground.

Signs of Infestation

  • Visual signs:
    • Mud tubes: Pencil-sized tubes on foundation walls, interior walls, or around pipes indicate termite activity.
    • Hollow-sounding wood: Tapping on infested wood may sound hollow due to termite damage within.
    • Discarded wings: Presences of shed wings near windows or doors after a swarm event can be a sign of a nearby colony.
    • Door sticking issues: Difficulty opening or closing doors due to warped wood from termite damage.
  • Behavioral signs: Presence of live termites or swarmers around your property.

Health Risks

  • Property damage: Subterranean termites can cause significant structural damage to homes and buildings if left unchecked. The cost of repairs can be substantial.

Control Methods

  • Preventative measures:
    • Eliminate moisture sources around your foundation.
    • Maintain a space between wood structures and soil.
    • Regularly inspect for mud tubes and signs of damage.
  • Treatment options:
    • Soil treatment: A professional pest control company can apply a termiticide barrier around the foundation to prevent termites from entering the structure.
    • Bait stations: These stations contain a slow-acting bait that termites take back to the colony, eliminating the queen and eventually the entire colony.
    • Direct nest treatment: In severe cases, a professional may locate and treat the termite nest directly.

Subterranean Termite Species in Sri Lanka:

Subterranean Termite Species in Sri Lanka:

Several species of subterranean termites are found in Sri Lanka, with some of the most common being:

  • Coptotermes ceylonicus
  • Coptotermes gestroi
  • Heterotermes indicola

The specific species present can affect the best control methods. A professional pest control company can help identify the species and recommend the most effective treatment plan.

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