Subterranean Termites

Subterranean termites are eusocial insects primarily of the family Rhinotermitidae. Known for their destructive habits, they are considered one of the most economically significant pests worldwide due to the damage they cause to man-made structures and natural resources.

Description and Biology

Subterranean termites are small, typically measuring between 1/8 to 1 inch. The workers are usually light in color, while the reproductive caste is darker with a pair of long, equal-length wings. The soldier caste has long mandibles and a larger, darker head compared to the workers.

Subterranean termites require a moist environment to survive. As such, they build mud tubes to shield themselves from the open air and to maintain a humid environment. These mud tubes are a common sign of a subterranean termite infestation.

Behavior and Ecology

Subterranean termites are found throughout the world, but they are particularly common in tropical and subtropical regions. They are also common in areas where the ground does not freeze in the winter.

These termites live in colonies underground, from which they build tunnels in search of food; the food consists primarily of wood and other cellulose material.

Social Structure

Subterranean termite colonies are organized into a caste system, which includes the reproductives (king and queen), soldiers, and workers. The queen’s primary role is to reproduce; some queens can live for decades and lay thousands of eggs each year. Soldiers defend the colony against invaders, particularly ants and predatory insects. Workers, the most numerous caste, do the foraging, food storage, and brood and nest maintenance.

Human Interactions

Subterranean termites are among the most damaging pests to human structures, causing billions of dollars in damage each year worldwide. They can compromise the strength and safety of an infested structure.

Because subterranean termites are difficult to detect, prevention is the best form of termite control. Measures include reducing wood-to-soil contact, maintaining adequate ventilation and reducing moisture in crawl spaces.