TERMITES

Termites are insects that gather in colonies. They are classified as epifamily Termitidae. They work together in distinct groups to keep colonies going. These groups include workers, and soldiers which are unable to reproduce. Another set is the kings which are large in number, and queens which are usually few.

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APPEARANCE

Termites are small insects which usually have a cream like or brown colour. They are quite small as body length ranges between 4 and 15 millimeters. Queen and king termites are a bit bigger than this, and they also have wings to fly. Termites also have noticeably soft bodies and straight antennae. They can be spotted in decayed leaves, fallen trees, houses and even in the soil.

FEEDING

Termites are detrivores which means they eat dead and decaying organic matter. Most termites consume a wide range of organic matter including wood, decaying leaves.

MOVEMENT

Termites usually reside in tunnels so they walk in a special way to make locomotion effective. Termites move in a zigzag motion. The wider the tunnel the faster they are able to navigate through. Exposure to any kind of light also makes termite move faster. While some can only crawl some have wings so they can fly.

REPRODUCTION

In termite colonies reproduction is carried out by kings and queens. All other members are unable to reproduce. At the start of the reproductive process, the reproductives exit the colony to procreate (mating flight). After mating is done and fertilization has occurred the reproductive shed their wings and go on to form new colonies where they become kings and queens.

The Queen lays eggs which hatch to become larvae. The larvae form reproductives (primary and secondary), workers, and soldiers.

DANGERS

Termites can harm humans in different ways:

Painful bites and stings which usually cause noticeable swelling.
Release of particles which can trigger asthma and allergies.
Termites spread pellets called frass which can lead to contact dermatitis when it comes in contact with skin

CONTROL

Although termites are very small they can gather to wreak total havoc on any wooden creation. Most of the time colonies infiltrate silently and lots of damage has been done before the invasion is discovered.

Upon discovery, professional pest control services should be contacted without delay.

This is because termites infestations are not easy to stem. Treatment of infested areas usually involves a lot of complicated processes such as:

Pesticide injection
Large scale water spraying
Soil Injection

Professionals also employ baiting which has proven to be an effective method. One way of baiting termites is the use of cellulose-based food which contains substances that kill termites. These baits can be inserted underground in yards. Although termite infestation can be controlled it is best to avoid one totally by taking necessary steps.

To prevent these infestations in the first place.

make house foundations concretes
Create ample ventilation space between soil and wood
Seal all exposed wood surfaces

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