Termites are tiny, soft-bodied creatures that live everywhere in the world. If you go out searching, you’ll find them on every continent except Antarctica. Because they are everywhere, they also play an essential role in many ecosystems. While they may not seem like much, these little critters can cause a lot of damage if they’re left unchecked. Termites are fascinating creatures, and there are tens of thousands of different species.
This blog post will explore interesting facts about termites, where they come from, and what they eat. We’ll also look at the life cycle of a termite and, more importantly, how do you get rid of them if they become a problem. Read on to learn more about these pesky pests!
Termites are a type of social insect that are classified under the family Termitidae. The order is Isoptera. There are about 2,600 different species of termites. The termite has an elongated body and has two wings. The hind pair of wings are larger than the front pair. Termites are pale-colored and have a small head constricted behind the eyes. They have nocturnal eyes, and they are sensitive to light.
Termites are social insects that live closely with one another in colonies. They have a mutualistic relationship where they work together for the benefit of all members. This behavior benefits other creatures, such as birds and mammals, because termites play an important part in the food chain. Termites usually make a shelter out of wood or ground soil.
The following are interesting facts about termites:
Termites have large colonies
Termites in Dallas are blind... Kinda
Worker termites eat your home
Termite's jaws are super strong
Termites have wings & a complete towing package
Termites can detect water from 100 feet.
Termites Build Nests
Males cannot care for termite larvae
Termites live for 30+ years
Termite's have an exoskeleton
Termites typically live in warm, moist environments, so they can be found in tropical areas, as well as more temperate climates such as Dallas Texas.
They are found in forests, deserts, backyards, and even enjoy spending time inside your home. Most homeowners are terrified of termites invading their homes because they will eat the wood foundation right out from under them. A homeowner typically notices a termite infestation after significant damage has been done.
There are two main types of termites: dry wood and subterranean. Drywood termites are more common in the tropics, while subterranean termites are more common in temperate areas.
Drywood termites are not dependent on the soil to survive. They live in trees, logs, wooden homes, and any other wooden structure that they can find. Only ten percent of their body consists of the actual “body.” The rest is their intestines filled with bacteria that digest cellulose. Drywood termites are usually dark brown and have a relatively large flathead. They also have long and cylindrical bodies that fit into narrow crevices. The name “dry wood” comes from the fact these termites do not require contact with soil, unlike subterranean termites.
Subterranean termites live in colonies underground or inside wood structures. They are usually sensitive to light and moisture, so they do not like open spaces. A mature colony of subterranean termites can include more than 200,000 individual termites! Subterranean termites form a social system where only 2 reproduce male and female (the queen and king). The rest of the colony consists of sterile male and female workers, soldiers, and immature termites. They are usually cream to light brown.
There are many different ways to get rid of termites, but the most effective methods involve using a combination of treatments. However, the best way to get rid of these little critters is to make sure that they don’t enter your home in the first place. You can do this with a regular termite inspection from a trusted, local pest control company.
You can get rid of termites by using both chemical and non-chemical treatments.
Chemical treatments are often combined with physical barriers, so homeowners have to decide whether they’d rather get rid of termites more quickly by using chemicals or protect their homes from future damage by implementing physical barriers.
Physical barriers help keep termites away because there is no food source for them to find.
Insecticide barriers also work well and can be used with physical barriers. Also, fumigation is another effective method of getting rid of termites. If any of these treatments are not effective, better ask the help of the professional. Hiring a professional pest control company can provide homeowners with peace of mind and help ensure that the job is done effectively.
