What are Subterranean Termites?

Biology of Subterranean Termites

Subterranean termites are social insects that live in large colonies underground. These colonies can range in size from a few hundred to several million individuals, depending on the species. The termites are divided into different castes, each with a specific role in the colony.

The termite queen is responsible for laying eggs, which can number in the thousands each day. The termite king fertilizes the queen's eggs, and the workers are responsible for building and maintaining the nest, foraging for food, and caring for the young. The soldiers have large mandibles that they use to defend the colony against predators.

Subterranean termites have a complex digestive system that allows them to break down cellulose, the main component of wood. They are able to digest cellulose with the help of microorganisms in their digestive system.This ability to break down wood makes them a significant threat to wooden structures and homes.

Behavior of Subterranean Termites

Subterranean termites are known for their ability to tunnel through soil in search of food. They create underground tunnels or mud tubes that allow them to travel from the nest to their food source without being exposed to the open air. These mud tubes are made of soil, wood, and termite saliva and are a clear indication of a subterranean termite infestation.

Subterranean termites are attracted to wood and other cellulose-containing materials. They can infest a variety of structures, including homes, wooden fences, and even boats. They will also infest trees and other wooden structures that are in contact with the ground.

Subterranean termites are most active during the spring and summer months when the weather is warm and humid. They will swarm during this time, which is when the winged reproductives leave the colony to start new colonies. Swarming can be a sign of a nearby termite colony.

Signs of a Subterranean Termite Infestation

There are several signs that you may have a subterranean termite infestation. These include:

1. Mud tubes: As mentioned earlier, subterranean termites create mud tubes to travel from their nest to their food source. These mud tubes are a clear indication of a subterranean termite infestation.
2. Wood damage: Subterranean termites will eat through wood and leave behind hollowed-out galleries. The wood will have a honeycomb-like appearance, and you may be able to see termite feces, which looks like small pellets.
3. Swarming: Subterranean termites will swarm during the spring and summer months. If you see a swarm of winged insects around your home, this could be a sign     of a nearby termite colony.
4. Clicking sounds: If you tap on wood that has been infested by subterranean termites, you may hear a clicking sound. This is the sound of the termites hitting their heads against the wood to communicate with each other.

Treatment Options for Subterranean Termites

If you suspect a subterranean termite infestation, it isimportant to act quickly to prevent further damage to your home or woodenstructure. There are two effective treatment options available for subterraneantermites:

1. Chemical treatments: Chemical treatments involve applying a liquid termiticide to the soil around your home or structure. The termiticide is designed to kill the termites when they come into contact with it.

2. Bait systems: Bait systems involve placing bait stations around your home or structure. The bait is designed to attract termites, which will then feed on the bait and bring it back to the colony. The bait contains a slow-acting toxin that will eventually kill the entire colony.

Prevention of Subterranean Termite Infestations

Preventing subterranean termite infestations is key to protecting your home or wooden structure. Here are some tips for preventing subterranean termite infestations:

1. Remove wood and cellulose-containing materials from around your home or structure. This includes firewood, old tree stumps, and wood debris.
2. Keep your gutters and downspouts clean to prevent water from pooling around your home or structure.
3. Make sure there is proper ventilation in your crawl space or basement.
4. Seal any cracks or gaps in your foundation or walls to prevent termites from entering your home or structure.
5. Have regular termite inspections to catch any potential infestations early.

Conclusion

Subterranean termites are a significant threat to wooden structures and homes. They are social insects that live in large colonies underground and are attracted to wood and other cellulose-containing materials.If left untreated, subterranean termite infestations can cause significant damage and even structural damage to your home.

There are two effective treatment options available for subterranean termites, chemical treatments and bait systems. Preventing subterranean termite infestations is key to protecting your home or wooden structure, and there are several steps you can take to prevent infestations from occurring.

If you suspect a subterranean termite infestation, it is important to act quickly to prevent further damage. Contact Triple ThreatTermite at (866)652-5242. We use high-quality equipment and techniques to inspect and treat your home for termite infestations. It doesn't matter if you have a residential or commercial property, we are here to help you! Contact us to schedule an inspection of your San Diego property today!

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