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Formosan Subterranean Termite
Animal's Behavior
Formosan termites typically live in the ground and a large mature nest will periodically emit swarmers in large numbers over a wide area to find mates from another colony nest to start up a new colony. A suitable location for nesting should provide a constant moisture source and a readily available timber food source.
Eating Habits
Formosan termites eat mainly the springwood of susceptible timbers, most often leaving the summer wood sections.
Range
Within the United States, Formosan Subterranean Termites are found in California, Arizona, and New Mexico; eastern Texas, Arkansas and Louisiana east to North Carolina and Florida. They are also found in Hawaii. They are originally from southern China to Taiwan.
Animal Facts
- Formosan termites are the most aggressive and destructive timber pests in the United States.
Scientific Name
Coptotermes formosanus
Classification
Animalia, Arthropoda, Insecta, Isoptera, Rhinotermitidae, Coptotermes, C. formosanus
Place of Birth
Southern China to Formosa and Japan
Size
0.25 - 0.75 inches
Color
Soldier termites are pale gray to yellow with black mandibles. Workers are pale gray or white. Reproductive males and females are yellow-brown.
Lifespan
Termite queens live extraordinarily long lives; 15-30 years.
Conservation Status
Least Concern
