S & W Pest Management Inc : Insect Guide

Pest Guide » Termites » Formosan Termites:

Formosan Termites
Color: Yellowish brown
Legs: Six
Shape: Long, narrow, oval
Size: 1/2 inch in length
Antennae: Yes
Flight: Yes

Originally from China, Formosan termites are the most voracious, aggressive and devious of over 2,000 termite species known to science. Formosan termites are a subterranean species of termite. Formosans are organized into huge underground colonies, and build intricate mud nests inside the walls of a structure.

A single individual of the Formosan termite does not consume more wood than a single native subterranean termite, however, because of its large population size, a Formosan termite colony can cause more structural damage in a shorter time. Wood products that are infested by Formosan termites may be recognized by tapping the wood with a hard object. In severe infestations, Formosan termite hollows out woods leaving a paper-thin surface. A hollowed wood surface may look blistered or peeled.

Because of their aggressive nature, formosan termites are difficult to control once they infest a structure. Prevention is key.

Prevention Outdoors:

Store fire wood away from your home and remove piles of lumber or other decaying wood that could serve as a nesting site.
Keep mulch less than 2" thick and at least 12" away from foundations.
Eliminate sources of moisture such as leaky faucets, plumbing, and free-standing water. Also, make sure that your sprinkler system does not spray directly onto the foundation of your home or business.

Prevention Indoors:

To prevent entry into a structure, seal all internal and external cracks and crevices and be sure that wood is sealed with a uniform coating of paint, varnish or other sealant to prevent easy access by termites.
Use 20-mesh screen on all windows and doors, and especially at ventilation openings for attics and crawl spaces.

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