Subterranean Termite

Subterranean Termite

Facts, Identification & Control

• Actual Size: Approx. 3/8 inch in length.
• Characteristics: They typically have a brownish-black to nearly black body, paired with translucent, milky-white wings that are noticeably longer than their bodies.
• Legs: 6
• Antennae: Yes
• Wings: Alates/swarmers have wings.
• Habitat: They build and travel through mud tubes that connect the soil to food sources. They depend on moist soil to survive and remain active.
• Habits:
  • Regarded as the most destructive type of termite in the United States.
  • Live below ground and feed on wood that touches the soil.
  • Responsible for more than $5 billion in home damage each year.

Subterranean Termites in Dayton, OH

Subterranean termites account for the majority of termite damage across the United States. Common species include eastern subterranean, western subterranean, and Formosan subterranean termites. These insects feed on cellulose, which is found in all plant-based materials. Any wood in a home can become a food source, and termites may even chew through non-wood materials while searching for food. Because they stay out of sight, infestations often remain hidden until damage becomes severe.

Subterranean Termite Habitat

Subterranean termites nest in the soil and feed on plant material found in wood and other sources. These termites build mud tubes to protect themselves from predators and dehydration as they move between the ground and feeding areas. During swarming events, winged termites are attracted to light and may gather near doors and windows. After landing, they shed their wings and pair off to establish new colonies. Finding earth-colored mud tubes along foundations or walls is a strong sign of subterranean termite presence.

Subterranean Termite Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

Because termites rely on cellulose for food, wood throughout a home can become a target. Termite infestations tend to go unnoticed for years, as the insects remain hidden while causing damage. Swarming termites or the discovery of their wings is a clear sign that termites are present. While winged termites are frequently mistaken for ants, most ants found in homes are only a nuisance and do not damage wood, except for carpenter ants. Preventing or managing subterranean termites requires the expertise of a professional exterminator.

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