Termite Control: Know the Types of Termite Species
In Australia, there are more than 300 species of termites, but only a few of them are considered to be problematic. The following are the common types of termites found in Australia:
Ring-Ant Termite
This termite is commonly found on tree stumps and other wood materials. They don't usually live inside the house unless there are reasons to, for example, a soaked wooden door or window frames.
Microcerotermes
These termites are commonly found on the coasts of Queensland. They can create mounds above the ground and underground.
They have a particular preference for poles, fences, and posts anywhere in contact with the ground. Because these termites work slowly, it's easy to notice and treat them before serious structural damage occurs.
Magnetic Termite
These termites are native to the Northern Territory of Australia. The mounds are usually found in flood-prone grasslands that measure around three to four meters above the ground.
Nasutitermes
These termites feed mainly on decaying wood. They can be dangerous to buildings with wooden structures that are not adequately maintained.
Coptotermes
This is the most common termite that can be found around Australia. This termite is notorious for colonising living trees, hollowing out the heartwood, and making it its nest.
They can also be found inside structures feeding on wooden beams, joists, and other wooden components. The best way to protect your home from termites is by getting a yearly inspection done on your property.
Schedorhinotermes
Termites that live in the soil are called "subterranean" or "ground-dwelling" termites. Often, these insects can damage your home by eating through wooden framing and supports.
Giant Termite
These termites can be destructive because female termites can make another sub-colony a few hundred yards away. Making it harder to get rid of the infestation.
If given abundant water, favourable food and soil conditions like stored timber or timber structures, giant termite populations can grow to enormous numbers, even in the millions.
Dampwood Termite
Dampwood termites thrive in high-moisture conditions, such as those caused by plumbing leaks, inadequate ventilation, or drainage problems. Old, clogged gutters can also cause moisture to collect in wall cavities, creating an environment where termites thrive.
Heterotermes
This termite is known to cause extensive damage in houses, feeding on wood, paper, cloth, and other cellulosic materials. They enter buildings through wood that is in contact with the ground, creating a series of tunnels along its grain. It chews through wood, leaving only thin layers intact and plastering the rest of the surface with feces.
Types of Termite Nests
- Underground Nests: These nests are usually found in the soil beneath homes and buildings. They can also be found underneath your lawn, usually near your home's foundation.
- Ground Mounds: They can be found in lawns, gardens, and parks, usually hidden by grass or other vegetation. Ground mounds are made up of soil and debris chewed by the queen and her workers.
- Tree Nests: Trees that are infested with termites are easily recognised by the hollowed-out spaces and small piles of wood shavings around the base of the tree.
- Pole Nests: Nests that are found on fences and utility poles.
Conclusion
Termites can be a major problem for homeowners and business owners. If left unchecked, these tiny insects can cause significant damage to your property. To avoid this, get regular termite inspections done by a professional pest control company.
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