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Feeding Habits

Subterranean termites feed exclusively on wood and wood products containing
cellulose. Termites have protozoa (microorganisms) in their intestines that provide
enzymes to digest cellulose. Although termites are soft-bodied insects, their head, saw-
toothed jaws work like shears and are able to bite off extremely small fragments of wood,
a piece at a time.

Termites often infest buildings and damage lumber, wood panels, flooring, sheetrock,
wallpaper, plastics, paper products and fabric made of plant fibers. The most serious
damage is the loss of structural strength. Other costly losses include attacks on flooring,
carpeting, art work, books, clothing, furniture and valuable papers. Subterranean
termites do not attack live trees.

Communication

Termites communicate primarily by secreting chemicals called pheromones. Each colony
develops its own characteristic odor. An intruder is instantly recognized and an alarm
pheromones is secreted that triggers the soldiers to attack.

If a worker finds a new sources of food, it lays a chemical trail for others to follow. The
proportion of termites in each caste within the colony is also regulated chemically.
Nymphs or immature can develop into workers, soldiers, or reproductive adults depending
on the colony needs.

Sound is another means of communication. Soldiers and workers may bang their heads
against the tunnel creating vibrations perceived by others in the colony and serving to
mobilize the colony to defend itself.

Mutual exchange of food enhances recognition of colony members.

Evidence Of Termite Infestations

Wood damaged by termites always has remains of mud tubes attached to wood galleries
or tunnels in an irregular pattern. The tunnels may contain broken mud particles with
fecal materials. In the case of an active colony, white termites may be found in infested
wood.

The presence of flying winged males and female or their shed wings inside the building
indicates an infestation.

The presence of mud or shelter tubes extending from the ground to the woodwork or on
foundation walls also may indicate infestation. Workers travel periodically via shelter
tubes to their nest to regain moisture and perform feeding duties. Each mud tube is
approximately the diameter of a lead pencil.

How Old Is The Damage?

Based on normal feeding activity, it takes three to eight years to cause considerable
damage. There have been some predictions that, under ideal conditions, a termite colony
of 60,000 workers may consume a one-foot length of 2”x 4” pine in 118 to 157 days.

What to do if you suspect Termite damage?

When there is a suspicion of Termites or any type of Wood Destroying Insect, the best
thing to do is contact a certified pest applicator to inspect and possible treatment.
One thing important to remember Moisture can make a good habitation for Wood
Destroying inspects.

Other Types Of Termites and Wood Destroying Inspects