Formosan Subterranean Termites

Formosan Subterraneans have the worst reputation and are known as a high-population species that form galleries underground that interconnect. Formosans were actually first reported in Florida in the 1980’s, though they are currently found all over the United States. They are the most devastating species as their colonies can reach numbers in the millions. The largest known Formosan colony was reported at an abandoned library in New Orleans with a population of over ten million. Due to these huge numbers, this species is the most destructive in the shortest time spans. Because of this, they are considered the most economically important pest in the state of Hawaii.

Like any other being, they are after water and food. Usually, they can find entry into a structure by cracks in the foundation, utility conduits, etc. They will build foraging tubes from the soil up into the structure where they will feed and potentially create nests inside walls or under sinks. Alates, winged swarmer’s, can also fly to find suitable areas for the colony to habituate above ground, such as a rooftop that collects rainwater. These are called aerial colonies as they don’t connect to the ground at all. Aerial colonies are more common with Formosans than any other termites. This species will build “cartons,” constructed from mud and feces, that bring moisture to their nests. Formosans are incredibly efficient in this way because they do not have to return to the soil for water.

A colony will usually consist of 3 castes; the reproducers, the soldiers, and the workers. Identification of these pests are usually based on the soldiers, or alates. Like bees, termites have a queen that can produce more than 1,000 eggs per day. A colony may take 3-5 years before it can grow to substantial size and cause major damage.

Damage done by a Formosan Subterranean colony is tremendous due to how large in population they can be become. Pest professionals can determine the location and extent of the damage and come up with a game plan to control the colony.