Termiticides are pesticides used for termites control. Basically there are two groups of termiticides that differentiated by how termites are affected when they encounter treated soil.
Repellent termiticides do not kill termites, because insects are able to detect the treated soil and do not tunnel into it.Termiticide is injected into areas of the soil around a home's foundation, preventing termites from entering into the structure. The slab is drilled and the soil is treated underneath. Trenches are dug around the foundation outside and within crawl spaces and filled with termiticide, creating a chemical barrier which the termites will not be able to pass. The termiticide repels the termites by blocking them off from their food source. Ideally the termites are turned away from the structure and the entire nest will be killed.
Non-repellent termiticides also known as a delayed termiticide treatment, this method of non-repellent termite treatment works much more slowly than a repellant treatment. The structure is drilled, trenched and injected as with the repellent liquid, but the termiticide is not repellent to the termites. The termites cannot detect the non-repellent termiticide in the soil so they tunnel into it and are killed. One advantage of this is that it can be transmitted to other members of the termite infestation with a single dose. This method is often used in conjunction with bait stations
Some insecticides used as repellent termiticides are:
Bifenthrin, Cypermethrin, Fenvalerate, Permethrin
All synthetic pyrethroids chemicals classified as "Repellent Termiticides"
Some insecticides used as non-repellents are:
Chloronicotinyls, Chlorophenapyr, Fipronil, Imidicloprid, and Phenylpyrazols.
Both repellent and non-repellent termiticides have proven satisfactory for making effective barriers when applied properly.
ORANGE OIL: OTHER TERMITES EXTERMINATION OPTIONS TO CONSIDER ?
What is orange oil ?
Orange oil products feature d-limonene, which is known as a high-functioning (but not too toxic) killer of termites. D−limonene is extracted from the rinds of oranges, and it’s the same chemical found in many household products. Due to d−limonene’s low toxicity, it has become increasingly popular and the preferred termite control method for many home owners and industries. Orange oil is also used in the manufacturing of resins, cleaning compounds, and as a fragrance additive in many products. Traditionally, orange oil has been used in aromatherapy and in the preparation of exotic perfumes. It is also used in the preparation of many traditional cuisines.
Orange oil is often described as an organic, green and biodegradable termite-control measure. Since it has negligible poisonous compounds associated with chemical pesticides, it doesn't create the problem of leaving toxic residues in the house.
Is orange oil effective ?
Dr. Rudolf H. Scheffrahn, an entomologist working at the University of Florida was commissioned to conduct an efficacy study to discover the true effectiveness of XT-2000 (Orange Oil Termiticide) He found that termites "treated with 92% d-limonene yielded mortalities ranging from 47-100% with a total mean mortality of 97.4%"
The effectiveness of orange oil as a termite-killer has certain limitations. An orange oil treatment for termites is localized spot application of each identified termite infestation and will only kill termites in the areas treated. Treatment with orange oil requires drilling into the infested wood members and injecting the product into the termite galleries. It is not ideally suited to handle, large-scale, invasive termite infestations. Yes, if the termite infestation is limited to a certain part of the house, it can be treated with orange oil. If the infestation has spread across a major portion of the house and it is deep-seated among the wooden structures, using orange oil may not be the best idea.
Unpublished research has determined that injecting d-limonene oil into termite galleries can kill dry wood termites. The problem with this method is, drill and injection is a random, localized treatment and not whole structure. The limitations would include the many "inaccessible areas" common in most structures and detection. The problems with localized chemical treatments are the detection and treatment of individual colonies. If colonies are not detected or inaccessible, they will not be killed by injecting chemicals.
Orange oil will kill termites on contact only effective for Drywood not for all termites . It has very little residual effect (< 24 hours). It can lose it's effectiveness over time and need reapplication. It also absorbs in all directions improving the chances of the needed connection. It emits volatile organic compounds which are bad to breathe and harmful to the environment.
Conclusion
Orange oil is not a new all encompassing magic solution to control pests, including termites. It has its own limitation. Because orange oil only works on the principle of contact killing it does not kill all termites on your property. With orange oil you won't get 100% assurance that all of the drywood termites in the home are eliminated.
Orange oil products feature d-limonene, which is known as a high-functioning (but not too toxic) killer of termites. D−limonene is extracted from the rinds of oranges, and it’s the same chemical found in many household products. Due to d−limonene’s low toxicity, it has become increasingly popular and the preferred termite control method for many home owners and industries. Orange oil is also used in the manufacturing of resins, cleaning compounds, and as a fragrance additive in many products. Traditionally, orange oil has been used in aromatherapy and in the preparation of exotic perfumes. It is also used in the preparation of many traditional cuisines.
Orange oil is often described as an organic, green and biodegradable termite-control measure. Since it has negligible poisonous compounds associated with chemical pesticides, it doesn't create the problem of leaving toxic residues in the house.
Is orange oil effective ?
Dr. Rudolf H. Scheffrahn, an entomologist working at the University of Florida was commissioned to conduct an efficacy study to discover the true effectiveness of XT-2000 (Orange Oil Termiticide) He found that termites "treated with 92% d-limonene yielded mortalities ranging from 47-100% with a total mean mortality of 97.4%"
The effectiveness of orange oil as a termite-killer has certain limitations. An orange oil treatment for termites is localized spot application of each identified termite infestation and will only kill termites in the areas treated. Treatment with orange oil requires drilling into the infested wood members and injecting the product into the termite galleries. It is not ideally suited to handle, large-scale, invasive termite infestations. Yes, if the termite infestation is limited to a certain part of the house, it can be treated with orange oil. If the infestation has spread across a major portion of the house and it is deep-seated among the wooden structures, using orange oil may not be the best idea.
Unpublished research has determined that injecting d-limonene oil into termite galleries can kill dry wood termites. The problem with this method is, drill and injection is a random, localized treatment and not whole structure. The limitations would include the many "inaccessible areas" common in most structures and detection. The problems with localized chemical treatments are the detection and treatment of individual colonies. If colonies are not detected or inaccessible, they will not be killed by injecting chemicals.
Orange oil will kill termites on contact only effective for Drywood not for all termites . It has very little residual effect (< 24 hours). It can lose it's effectiveness over time and need reapplication. It also absorbs in all directions improving the chances of the needed connection. It emits volatile organic compounds which are bad to breathe and harmful to the environment.
Conclusion
Orange oil is not a new all encompassing magic solution to control pests, including termites. It has its own limitation. Because orange oil only works on the principle of contact killing it does not kill all termites on your property. With orange oil you won't get 100% assurance that all of the drywood termites in the home are eliminated.
Fumigation in Termites Extermination
Termite fumigation is quite effective in ridding eliminating home of termites. By using termite fumigation, the termites are exterminated through the use of a gas that is lethal to them. Typically, Vikane gas or sulfuryl fluoride, used during the fumigation process. Vikane has been commercialized by Dow Chemical Corporation is one of the most popular. Neither gases have an odor, a color, or leave a residue behind on objects in the home. In addition, chloropicrin, a form of tear gas, is also added to the termite fumigation chemicals as a warning to those entering the premises that fumigation is in process.
By hiring a licensed, professional fumigator or termites exterminator steps should be taken to ensure the safety of the occupants of the home. This includes using chloropicrin, the tear gas mentioned above, to warn anyone attempting to enter the home. In addition, the outer doors to the home will have an additional locking mechanism attached to them; thereby allowing only the fumigator the opportunity to enter the home. Lastly, the fumigator should have equipment to detect when the gases are gone and the home can be re-inhabited.
In preparation for termite fumigation, a few things below need to be done.
• Everything living, including people, pets, and plants, must be removed from the house.
• Any food, medicines, mattresses, box springs, and pillows should be removed or placed in a fume-bag that can be provided by the fumigator.
• Any plants near the exterior of the home should be trimmed so that the fumigators can maneuver near the walls and that area should be watered to prevent the fumigant from absorbing into the soil and killing the plants.
• External devices, such as antennas, satellite dishes, and weather vanes, should be taken off of the home
• Some fencing may need to be removed so that the tarps can completely cover the home.
The termite fumigation period will last from 24 to 48 hours. When the appropriate time period has passed, the fumigator will aerate the home with the help of the fan for another six to eight hours. Once the aeration period is over, the fumigator must certify that the home is ready for re-entry. After certification is complete, the home owner must be aware of side effects, such as headaches, nausea, coughing, or tearing. If any symptoms are experienced, residents must leave the home, contact a physician and report the occurrence to both the company and to any local agencies that record such incidents.
By hiring a licensed, professional fumigator or termites exterminator steps should be taken to ensure the safety of the occupants of the home. This includes using chloropicrin, the tear gas mentioned above, to warn anyone attempting to enter the home. In addition, the outer doors to the home will have an additional locking mechanism attached to them; thereby allowing only the fumigator the opportunity to enter the home. Lastly, the fumigator should have equipment to detect when the gases are gone and the home can be re-inhabited.
In preparation for termite fumigation, a few things below need to be done.
• Everything living, including people, pets, and plants, must be removed from the house.
• Any food, medicines, mattresses, box springs, and pillows should be removed or placed in a fume-bag that can be provided by the fumigator.
• Any plants near the exterior of the home should be trimmed so that the fumigators can maneuver near the walls and that area should be watered to prevent the fumigant from absorbing into the soil and killing the plants.
• External devices, such as antennas, satellite dishes, and weather vanes, should be taken off of the home
• Some fencing may need to be removed so that the tarps can completely cover the home.
The termite fumigation period will last from 24 to 48 hours. When the appropriate time period has passed, the fumigator will aerate the home with the help of the fan for another six to eight hours. Once the aeration period is over, the fumigator must certify that the home is ready for re-entry. After certification is complete, the home owner must be aware of side effects, such as headaches, nausea, coughing, or tearing. If any symptoms are experienced, residents must leave the home, contact a physician and report the occurrence to both the company and to any local agencies that record such incidents.
Reduce Risk Pesticides in Termites Extermination
Hexaflumuron is a chemical of the benzoylurea class, which regulates insect growth by inhibiting chitin (outer skeleton) formation. It was registered in 1994 — the first active ingredient to be registered as a "reduced risk pesticide" through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA's) reduced risk program, which waives tests for new pesticides that are thought to pose fewer hazards than existing pesticides. It is registered for use on termites, and is the active ingredient in the Sentricon™ bait system. It functions by inhibiting the synthesis of chitin, the material that makes up the exoskeleton of insects (Cox, 1997).
Toxicity
Hexaflumuron has a low toxicity to rats when ingested, with a LD50 >5000mg/kg for male and female rats. Based in its low LD50 in laboratory animals, it is assumed to be of low toxicity to humans. It is a mild skin and eye irritant, and is not expected to cause carcinogenic, mutagenic, or teratogenic effects (NPTN, Hexaflumeron, 2000). In chronic feeding studies, hexaflumuron increased the incidence and severity of liver cell abnormality. Because it was registered as a reduced-risk pesticide, many of the standard tests are lacking for hexaflumuron, including subchronic toxicity testing, delayed neurotoxicity testing, and tests for developmental or reproductive effects (Cox, 1997).
Environmental Fate
Studies have found the half-life of hexaflumuron to range from 40-160 days. It has low mobility in soil, binding strongly to soil particles, and is not highly soluble in water. If used according to the manufacturer's specifications, it is not likely to contaminate surface or groundwater(NPTN, Hexaflumuron, 2000).
Ecological Effects
It is highly toxic to aquatic animals and should not be used in areas where it could be washed out of the bait station into water at or near the ground surface (MSDS, Recruit II). Hexaflumuron may cause long-term effects in the aquatic environment, and will lead to bioaccumulation of the chemical in fish. It has a very low toxicity to birds (ILO, ISCS: 1266, 1995).
Resources:
Cox, C. 1997. "Subterranean Termites, Part 2." Journal of Pesticide Reform 17(2):21.
TERMITES PHYSICAL BARRIER
Termites control normally use soil chemical treatments that act as barriers between subterranean termites and the house. Other barrier control methods that don't rely on termiticides as the primary deterrent are called physical barriers. Physical termite barriers do not kill termites. Instead, they create a physical roadblock that is difficult for termites to penetrate directly.
Physical barriers commercially available include aggregate, stainless steel mesh, and plastic impregnated with a termiticide.
Aggregate Barrier Or Basaltic Termites Barrier (BTB)
Aggregate barriers, sometimes called basaltic or sand barriers, uses rock particles of a specific size to prevent termite penetration. Termites move soil by using their mouth rather than by digging with their legs or bodies, and aggregate in the 1 to 3-mm range is too large for them to manage.
The principle behind aggregate or basaltic termites barrier (BTB) is simple. The particles of BTB are small enough that they pack tightly and do not allow termites to squeeze through. They are also big and heavy enough that the termites can't pick them up and move them. Finally, the particles are too hard for the termites to chew.
Aggregate barriers are installed between the soil and the foundation, slab, or other vulnerable spots in the house perimeter. The building design and site soil characteristics determine how and where aggregate barriers are placed, but the strategy is to block access for termites residing in the soil to the foundation or utility penetrations.
Problems may occur where the soil is unstable or not fully compacted, when surfaces at the edges of the barrier are rough or irregular, or if there is no protection from mixing with the adjacent soil material.
Stainless Steel Mesh Barrier
Stainless steel mesh barriers have a screen opening that is too small for termites to pass through and too durable for them to shear. Mesh barriers have aperture size of 0.66 mm x 0.45 mm and come in 47.24 in. by 100 ft. rolls. This mesh recently developed and patented in Australia as Termi-Mesh™.
Mesh barriers can be applied over potential entry points into the foundation, such as service pipe penetrations, control joints, brick or block piers, etc. The mesh is bonded to the cement or masonry foundation using bonding cement or epoxy resin. Stainless steel clamps are used to fasten the mesh to pipes.
A mesh barrier is installed around the perimeter of a home and around utility penetrations or expansion joints. Installation shall be accomplished only through accredited installers - typically associated with a pest control operation. Penetrations are treated by fashioning a collar around the utility line and clamping the mesh to the utility. Other installations include under slab, in cavity walls, cold-joint installation between structures, over concrete masonry units, and around timber post supported structures.
Plastic Barrier
Plastic barrier are designed to be installed around pipes and electrical conduit extending through slab foundations. The system also includes a tub trap barrier for the tub drain penetration through a slab. It consist of composite fibre blanket and plastic membrane with termiticide impregnation.
Plastic termite barriers are also installed around utility penetrations through slabs and foundations using clamps. This process is performed prior to the pouring of the slab, and so concrete encases the entire assembly. This system prevents termite entrance through concrete shrinkage cracks, or gaps caused by utility vibration. Termite barriers are not intended as a stand-alone termite control system, but are designed to complement chemical or bait termite control measures. Certified contractors in the pest control field should install plastic termite barrier systems.
Conclusion
This new method in controlling termites infestation can be safer to use and potentially less harmful to the environment than relying only on toxic pesticides. Even though it may cost more initially but it lead to long-term solutions. Physical termite barriers are most effective when installed before or early in the construction process to ensure the best protection.
Physical barriers commercially available include aggregate, stainless steel mesh, and plastic impregnated with a termiticide.
Aggregate Barrier Or Basaltic Termites Barrier (BTB)
Aggregate barriers, sometimes called basaltic or sand barriers, uses rock particles of a specific size to prevent termite penetration. Termites move soil by using their mouth rather than by digging with their legs or bodies, and aggregate in the 1 to 3-mm range is too large for them to manage.
The principle behind aggregate or basaltic termites barrier (BTB) is simple. The particles of BTB are small enough that they pack tightly and do not allow termites to squeeze through. They are also big and heavy enough that the termites can't pick them up and move them. Finally, the particles are too hard for the termites to chew.
Aggregate barriers are installed between the soil and the foundation, slab, or other vulnerable spots in the house perimeter. The building design and site soil characteristics determine how and where aggregate barriers are placed, but the strategy is to block access for termites residing in the soil to the foundation or utility penetrations.
Problems may occur where the soil is unstable or not fully compacted, when surfaces at the edges of the barrier are rough or irregular, or if there is no protection from mixing with the adjacent soil material.
Stainless Steel Mesh Barrier
Stainless steel mesh barriers have a screen opening that is too small for termites to pass through and too durable for them to shear. Mesh barriers have aperture size of 0.66 mm x 0.45 mm and come in 47.24 in. by 100 ft. rolls. This mesh recently developed and patented in Australia as Termi-Mesh™.
Mesh barriers can be applied over potential entry points into the foundation, such as service pipe penetrations, control joints, brick or block piers, etc. The mesh is bonded to the cement or masonry foundation using bonding cement or epoxy resin. Stainless steel clamps are used to fasten the mesh to pipes.
A mesh barrier is installed around the perimeter of a home and around utility penetrations or expansion joints. Installation shall be accomplished only through accredited installers - typically associated with a pest control operation. Penetrations are treated by fashioning a collar around the utility line and clamping the mesh to the utility. Other installations include under slab, in cavity walls, cold-joint installation between structures, over concrete masonry units, and around timber post supported structures.
Plastic Barrier
Plastic barrier are designed to be installed around pipes and electrical conduit extending through slab foundations. The system also includes a tub trap barrier for the tub drain penetration through a slab. It consist of composite fibre blanket and plastic membrane with termiticide impregnation.
Plastic termite barriers are also installed around utility penetrations through slabs and foundations using clamps. This process is performed prior to the pouring of the slab, and so concrete encases the entire assembly. This system prevents termite entrance through concrete shrinkage cracks, or gaps caused by utility vibration. Termite barriers are not intended as a stand-alone termite control system, but are designed to complement chemical or bait termite control measures. Certified contractors in the pest control field should install plastic termite barrier systems.
Conclusion
This new method in controlling termites infestation can be safer to use and potentially less harmful to the environment than relying only on toxic pesticides. Even though it may cost more initially but it lead to long-term solutions. Physical termite barriers are most effective when installed before or early in the construction process to ensure the best protection.
USE OF CHEMICAL IN TERMITES EXTERMINATION
Insecticides Barriers in Termites Extermination
Only certain insecticides are used for termites extermination purposes.They can be applied before construction of a building, on the foundation soil. They can also be applied after construction by drilling holes in the concrete floor.In both types of chemical application, the purpose is to create an insecticidal barrier that prevents termites from entering the building.
Treating before construction is easier and gives better protection. In the trade these are commonly referred to as pre-treatments or “pre-treats.” Insecticides are applied to the soil as a means of blocking concealed access to a structure by subterranean termites .
Treating after construction is usually done to protect a building against further damage by termites after they have been discovered in an existing building. Holes are drilled in the ground floor along the perimeter of the building, and insecticides are pumped into the ground beneath the floor. Any piers, foundation walls, patios, trees, retaining walls, fences or landscaping timbers that come in contact with your property may require treatment.
The chemical can work in a number of ways, depending on which chemical is used. The longevity of chemical treatments is anywhere between seven (7) and ten (10) years.
Spraying insecticides indoors is not a good way in termites extermination, and it can endanger the health of the occupants. Outdoor poles can be treated by spraying them before burying them or by drenching the soil in which they are buried.
Trees are treated by removing the soil from the base of the tree and allowing the insecticide to seep into the soil. Larger trees require a larger volume of insecticide. Spraying only the tree trunk and surface soil is not a good way of protecting them against termites.
Make sure that all termiticides used by termite exterminator are registered and approved by the pesticides control authority in your country.
Only certain insecticides are used for termites extermination purposes.They can be applied before construction of a building, on the foundation soil. They can also be applied after construction by drilling holes in the concrete floor.In both types of chemical application, the purpose is to create an insecticidal barrier that prevents termites from entering the building.
Treating before construction is easier and gives better protection. In the trade these are commonly referred to as pre-treatments or “pre-treats.” Insecticides are applied to the soil as a means of blocking concealed access to a structure by subterranean termites .
Treating after construction is usually done to protect a building against further damage by termites after they have been discovered in an existing building. Holes are drilled in the ground floor along the perimeter of the building, and insecticides are pumped into the ground beneath the floor. Any piers, foundation walls, patios, trees, retaining walls, fences or landscaping timbers that come in contact with your property may require treatment.
The chemical can work in a number of ways, depending on which chemical is used. The longevity of chemical treatments is anywhere between seven (7) and ten (10) years.
Spraying insecticides indoors is not a good way in termites extermination, and it can endanger the health of the occupants. Outdoor poles can be treated by spraying them before burying them or by drenching the soil in which they are buried.
Trees are treated by removing the soil from the base of the tree and allowing the insecticide to seep into the soil. Larger trees require a larger volume of insecticide. Spraying only the tree trunk and surface soil is not a good way of protecting them against termites.
Make sure that all termiticides used by termite exterminator are registered and approved by the pesticides control authority in your country.
SHOP FOR BOOK : TERMITE EXTERMINATION FOR HOME OWNERS
Shop for Books (Kindle Edition):
Termite Extermination for Home Owners: How to Get Rid Of Termites Forever!
It's time for people to learn what termites extermination all about.
Kindle Price: $4.77 BUY NOW!
Termite Extermination for Home Owners: How to Get Rid Of Termites Forever!
It's time for people to learn what termites extermination all about.
Kindle Price: $4.77 BUY NOW!
INSTALLATION OF TERMITE BAITS
Baiting is an efficient method of termites extermination because it targets the termite nest. It’s also considered an eco-friendly option in termite extermination programs. The active ingredient affects the termite's ability to grow, develop and reproduce. The offending termite colony actually eats itself to destruction.
How installation of termite bait is made ? Here’s couple of steps to set up termite baits station.
1. Outdoor baiting points (stations) are established in the grounds around the building.
2. Each station has wooden stakes held in a holder that is buried in the ground and has openings through which termites can enter.
3. The holders have a removable cover, which can be opened for regular inspection.
4. Once a termite infestation is found in the wooden stakes, the stakes are removed and replaced with bait containing the chemical.
5. The termites that were in the station are returned. They feed on the bait together with new termites.
6. More chemical-containing bait is added regularly to replace what has been eaten.
7. Additional baits in special containers are placed indoors wherever there are termites.
It may takes about 6-12 weeks for the termites to disappear from the baiting stations and the building. However several months may elapse before total colony elimination is effected. There are numerous factors controlling this, such as the time of year, size of the colony and species of termite involved.
Termite baiting has been in serious use in the termites extermination industry for more than 10 years.You may consider this option to exterminate termites in your home.
1. Outdoor baiting points (stations) are established in the grounds around the building.
2. Each station has wooden stakes held in a holder that is buried in the ground and has openings through which termites can enter.
3. The holders have a removable cover, which can be opened for regular inspection.
4. Once a termite infestation is found in the wooden stakes, the stakes are removed and replaced with bait containing the chemical.
5. The termites that were in the station are returned. They feed on the bait together with new termites.
6. More chemical-containing bait is added regularly to replace what has been eaten.
7. Additional baits in special containers are placed indoors wherever there are termites.
It may takes about 6-12 weeks for the termites to disappear from the baiting stations and the building. However several months may elapse before total colony elimination is effected. There are numerous factors controlling this, such as the time of year, size of the colony and species of termite involved.
Termite baiting has been in serious use in the termites extermination industry for more than 10 years.You may consider this option to exterminate termites in your home.
Sexual Reproduction: Birds Do It, Bees Do It; Termites Don't, Necessarily
ScienceDaily (Mar. 28, 2009) — Scientists at North Carolina State University and three universities in Japan have shown for the first time that it is possible for certain female termite "primary queens" to reproduce both sexually and asexually during their lifetimes.
The asexually produced babies mostly grow to be queen successors – so-called "secondary queens" – that remain in the termite colony and mate with the king. This produces large broods of babies without the dangers of inbreeding, as secondary queens have no genes in common with the king.
Babies produced the old-fashioned way, between either the primary or secondary queens and the king, are mostly workers and soldiers of both genders, the research shows.
Dr. Ed Vargo, associate professor of entomology at NC State and a co-author of the paper, says that the species of subterranean termite studied, Reticulitermes speratus, is an important economic pest in Japan and is in the same genus as termites found in North Carolina.
Termite colonies are generally founded and then sustained by a primary king and primary queen. In the study, the scientists collected termites from a number of different colonies in Japan. In many colonies, the primary queen was not present, but had been seemingly succeeded by numerous secondary queens. Most primary kings, meanwhile, were present in the colonies. This suggests, Vargo says, that the primary kings live longer than the primary queens, so there is a strong need for these termites to have genetically diverse queen successors to grow the colonies efficiently.
Vargo's genetic analysis of termite populations in several colonies showed that secondary queens shared genes with primary queens but not with primary kings, suggesting asexual reproduction. At the same time, male and female termite workers and soldiers had genetic traces of both the primary king and primary queen, suggesting sexual reproduction.
"The conditional use of sex is unusual in insects and was previously unknown in termites. This novel use of both sexual and asexual reproduction is a way for primary queens to maximize reproductive output allowing the colony to grow bigger and faster while maintaining genetic diversity and avoiding the disadvantages of inbreeding," Vargo says.
Vargo plans to continue this research by looking for other species of female termites with dual mating systems. He adds that learning more about the genetics behind reproduction could lead to ways of preventing the production of certain castes of termites – like the primary queens that reproduce in two ways – or ways of knocking out certain gene functions in those castes.
Story Source:
Adapted from materials provided by North Carolina State University.
Journal Reference:
1.Kenji Matasuura, Hiroko Nakano and Toshihisa Yashiro, Okayama University; Edward L. Vargo and Paul E. Labadie, North Carolina State University; Kazutaka Kawatsu, Kyoto University; Kazuki Tsuji, University of the Ryukyus. Queen Succession Through Asexual Reproduction in Termites. Science, March 26, 2009
The asexually produced babies mostly grow to be queen successors – so-called "secondary queens" – that remain in the termite colony and mate with the king. This produces large broods of babies without the dangers of inbreeding, as secondary queens have no genes in common with the king.
Babies produced the old-fashioned way, between either the primary or secondary queens and the king, are mostly workers and soldiers of both genders, the research shows.
Dr. Ed Vargo, associate professor of entomology at NC State and a co-author of the paper, says that the species of subterranean termite studied, Reticulitermes speratus, is an important economic pest in Japan and is in the same genus as termites found in North Carolina.
Termite colonies are generally founded and then sustained by a primary king and primary queen. In the study, the scientists collected termites from a number of different colonies in Japan. In many colonies, the primary queen was not present, but had been seemingly succeeded by numerous secondary queens. Most primary kings, meanwhile, were present in the colonies. This suggests, Vargo says, that the primary kings live longer than the primary queens, so there is a strong need for these termites to have genetically diverse queen successors to grow the colonies efficiently.
Vargo's genetic analysis of termite populations in several colonies showed that secondary queens shared genes with primary queens but not with primary kings, suggesting asexual reproduction. At the same time, male and female termite workers and soldiers had genetic traces of both the primary king and primary queen, suggesting sexual reproduction.
"The conditional use of sex is unusual in insects and was previously unknown in termites. This novel use of both sexual and asexual reproduction is a way for primary queens to maximize reproductive output allowing the colony to grow bigger and faster while maintaining genetic diversity and avoiding the disadvantages of inbreeding," Vargo says.
Vargo plans to continue this research by looking for other species of female termites with dual mating systems. He adds that learning more about the genetics behind reproduction could lead to ways of preventing the production of certain castes of termites – like the primary queens that reproduce in two ways – or ways of knocking out certain gene functions in those castes.
Story Source:
Adapted from materials provided by North Carolina State University.
Journal Reference:
1.Kenji Matasuura, Hiroko Nakano and Toshihisa Yashiro, Okayama University; Edward L. Vargo and Paul E. Labadie, North Carolina State University; Kazutaka Kawatsu, Kyoto University; Kazuki Tsuji, University of the Ryukyus. Queen Succession Through Asexual Reproduction in Termites. Science, March 26, 2009
New assay helps track termites and other insects
New assay helps track termites and other insects
ScienceDaily (Feb. 18, 2010) — An Agricultural Research Service (ARS)-developed method to safely and reliably mark termites and other insects over vast acreage so their movements can be tracked is just as effective as the previous method -- and more affordable.
That's according to recently published research by ARS entomologist James Hagler, at the agency's U.S. Arid-Land Agricultural Research Center in Maricopa, Ariz., and his collaborators at the University of Arizona.
They studied the movement patterns of the desert subterranean termite, which poses a threat to wood structures in the southwestern United States and causes an estimated $1.5 billion in losses each year. In the early 1990s, Hagler developed the first-generation immunoglobulin G (IgG) protein insect markers, which used expensive rabbit or chicken IgG proteins to track insects.
In a recent study, the scientists tested the rabbit IgG protein mark on termites in three field locations across the Arizona desert landscape. Each location consisted of 51 termite feeding stations placed at various distances around a rabbit-IgG-impregnated central feeding station infested with termites.
The protein would later be detected on field-collected termites using a rabbit-IgG-specific assay. The study showed that the rabbit protein marked the termites as they fed on the bait placed in the central feeding station, even after long-term exposure to harsh desert elements.
Now Hagler and his cooperators have developed a less expensive method of marking the insects with egg white, cow milk, or soy milk proteins, which can be sprayed on insects in the field using conventional spray equipment such as helicopters, airplanes and ground rigs. Each protein is detected by a protein-specific ELISA test. The test is less expensive because the assays have been optimized for mass production.
Working alongside fellow ARS entomologist Steven Naranjo in Maricopa and collaborators at the University of Arizona and the University of California, Hagler has also successfully tested this method on a wide variety of pest and beneficial insects.
Ultimately this state-of-the-art method will lead to better and more cost-effective control of termites, glassy-winged sharpshooters, lygus bugs, mosquitoes and other pests.
Results of two termite studies were recently published in the International Union for the Study of Social Insects' scientific journal Insectes Sociaux.
New assay helps track termites and other insects
ScienceDaily (Feb. 18, 2010) — An Agricultural Research Service (ARS)-developed method to safely and reliably mark termites and other insects over vast acreage so their movements can be tracked is just as effective as the previous method -- and more affordable.
That's according to recently published research by ARS entomologist James Hagler, at the agency's U.S. Arid-Land Agricultural Research Center in Maricopa, Ariz., and his collaborators at the University of Arizona.
They studied the movement patterns of the desert subterranean termite, which poses a threat to wood structures in the southwestern United States and causes an estimated $1.5 billion in losses each year. In the early 1990s, Hagler developed the first-generation immunoglobulin G (IgG) protein insect markers, which used expensive rabbit or chicken IgG proteins to track insects.
In a recent study, the scientists tested the rabbit IgG protein mark on termites in three field locations across the Arizona desert landscape. Each location consisted of 51 termite feeding stations placed at various distances around a rabbit-IgG-impregnated central feeding station infested with termites.
The protein would later be detected on field-collected termites using a rabbit-IgG-specific assay. The study showed that the rabbit protein marked the termites as they fed on the bait placed in the central feeding station, even after long-term exposure to harsh desert elements.
Now Hagler and his cooperators have developed a less expensive method of marking the insects with egg white, cow milk, or soy milk proteins, which can be sprayed on insects in the field using conventional spray equipment such as helicopters, airplanes and ground rigs. Each protein is detected by a protein-specific ELISA test. The test is less expensive because the assays have been optimized for mass production.
Working alongside fellow ARS entomologist Steven Naranjo in Maricopa and collaborators at the University of Arizona and the University of California, Hagler has also successfully tested this method on a wide variety of pest and beneficial insects.
Ultimately this state-of-the-art method will lead to better and more cost-effective control of termites, glassy-winged sharpshooters, lygus bugs, mosquitoes and other pests.
Results of two termite studies were recently published in the International Union for the Study of Social Insects' scientific journal Insectes Sociaux.
New assay helps track termites and other insects
DIFFRENTIATE ANTS AND TERMITES SWARMERS
I had a swarm of thousands on my patio last night. Do I have ants or termites ?
It is often difficult to determine the difference between termites and ants.
To tell the difference between a winged reproductive termite and a swarming ant, look at the antennae, waist size, wing structure and size.
1) Ants have elbowed antennae with a near 90 degree angle bend while. Termite antennae are almost straight.
3) Ant wings have few veins and Termite wings bristle with many small veins.
4) Ant wings do not break off easily. Termite wings break off easily, with just a touch.
5) Termites have four wings that are all equal in length. Ants have four wings, however, two are larger and two are smaller
If you confirm it was termite then you might considered some form of termites extermination or control program to protect your property.
WHAT ARE TERMITE BAITS?
How Termite Baits Work ?
Termite baits consist of paper, cardboard, or other material consume as termite food, combined with a slow-acting lethal chemical to termites, The chemical used for baiting is usually an insect hormone.
When fed to the termites, it disrupts the normal growth and reproduction of the termites. The termites feed on the chemical but do not die immediately and, therefore, can pass the chemical on to other members of the colony as they feed each other. Termite workers also feed the termite queen so, if sufficient of the chemical is fed on by the colony, the chemical also kills her without ever having directly fed on the bait.
After elimination of the termites, monitoring can be carried out with the wooden bait stakes to forewarn of any new infestation. Baiting is an efficient method of termites extermination because it targets the termite nest.
Termite baits consist of paper, cardboard, or other material consume as termite food, combined with a slow-acting lethal chemical to termites, The chemical used for baiting is usually an insect hormone.
When fed to the termites, it disrupts the normal growth and reproduction of the termites. The termites feed on the chemical but do not die immediately and, therefore, can pass the chemical on to other members of the colony as they feed each other. Termite workers also feed the termite queen so, if sufficient of the chemical is fed on by the colony, the chemical also kills her without ever having directly fed on the bait.
After elimination of the termites, monitoring can be carried out with the wooden bait stakes to forewarn of any new infestation. Baiting is an efficient method of termites extermination because it targets the termite nest.
TERMITES BAITING SYSTEM
Alternative way in termites extermination.
There are alternative ways to termites extermination strategies. Baiting systems are the most promising as to replace chemical barrier treatments. With this approach, only small amounts of material known as the toxicant knocks out populations of termites foraging in and around the structure.
Some homeowner may use only baits as a treatment, others may be integrated with liquid or barrier treatments. Using a baiting system with barrier treatments will reduce of amounts of pesticide use to the environment.
No termite control method can guarantee you will never get termites. Termite control may include a combination of one or more of these methods, a baiting system, termiticide treatment, moisture control, foaming, removal of earth wood contact and etc.
Termite baiting is a simple process and can be used as a preventive measure to detect termites where they are not yet a problem. It is also effectively proven in termites extermination.
There are alternative ways to termites extermination strategies. Baiting systems are the most promising as to replace chemical barrier treatments. With this approach, only small amounts of material known as the toxicant knocks out populations of termites foraging in and around the structure.
Some homeowner may use only baits as a treatment, others may be integrated with liquid or barrier treatments. Using a baiting system with barrier treatments will reduce of amounts of pesticide use to the environment.
No termite control method can guarantee you will never get termites. Termite control may include a combination of one or more of these methods, a baiting system, termiticide treatment, moisture control, foaming, removal of earth wood contact and etc.
Termite baiting is a simple process and can be used as a preventive measure to detect termites where they are not yet a problem. It is also effectively proven in termites extermination.
WHAT OPTION TO THE BEST TERMITES EXTERMINATION?
While helping my mother clean a bedroom today we discovered that the wooden bed and wood parquet had been eaten by what we assumed was termites as we found wings on the floor. What can we treat this with or do we call pest control ?
Termite infestations on anything made of wood is a homeowner's nightmare. It is essential that everyone keeps an eye on their furniture to check the growth of termites and kill them before they destroy your furniture. The termites eat away at the structure as well as any wooden furniture and can do major damage if you do not exterminate them right away. You can call in an exterminator, but the cost is high, especially if they have to keep coming back.
When a termite infestation is present, you have two choices:
1) rely on the services of a qualified and experienced termite control operator.
Termite extermination can be fairly expensive, the cost is usually justified by the special equipment such as concrete drills and pressure applicators, technical knowledge and experience, and large volumes of chemicals and time required to properly apply the treatment. Special attention should be given to termite-proofing chemicals and structures built into buildings on “floating” concrete slabs. If the slab cracks, even as little as 1/32 of an inch, the termites are afforded a well- protected, hidden, and direct route to and from their food source
2) attempt to control them yourself. The first choice, in most cases, is recommended.
Do-it-yourself termite control is seldom satisfactorily achieved. There are DIY Termites Treatment kits available in the market for dry wood termite infestations. There are too many obstacles to getting a good and effective treatment for the homeowner. You are taking a real risk with you house if you try to do this yourself. My rule is that it's OK to treat termites outside your house in areas like sheds, fence posts and wood piles, but once they come inside...call a professional termite exterminator. It's definitely worth having a professional termite exterminator look at the problem
TERMITES EXTERMINATION :THE GREEN WAY
Green way to terminate termites
By studying termites' immune systems scientists have found a sweet solution to getting rid of the pests, but in a green way.
Writing in this week's PNAS, Northeastern University researcher Mark Bulmer and his colleagues have discovered a natural way to suppress the immune systems of termites making them vulnerable to overwhelming fungal infections. The team began by studying how the insects normally keep themselves infection-free.
This is achieved using a family of substances called GNBPs - gram negative bacteria binding proteins - which lock onto chemical structures on the surfaces of pathogens and neutralise them. They are particularly effective against a fungus called Metarhizium anisopliae, which is killed when one of the GNBPs - GNBP-2 - breaks down essential molecules called glucans in its cell walls. But by modelling the structure of GNBP-2, and how it locks onto the fungal cell wall structures, the team were able to pick out a naturally-occurring and generally non-toxic sugary substance - D-gluconolactone - that would bind tightly to and block the GNBP-2.
Giving this substance to termites effectively rendered them chemically blind to the fungus, which attacked and killed them.
'This [gluconolactone],' say the researchers, 'is an alternative to toxic pesticides given that is it natural, non-toxic and biodegradable.' The team also point out that since other species of insects share GNBP-2 with termites it might also work further afield against other crop pests.
'Because D-gluconolactone is a product of a biosynthetic pathway, plants could conceivably be engineered to produce it in high amounts and in specific compartments, which would bolster their immunity to pest attacks
References
- Mark S. Bulmer, Ido Bachelet, Rahul Raman, Rebeca B. Rosengaus, and Ram Sasisekharan; Targeting an antimicrobial effector function in insect immunity as a pest control strategy; PNAS; published online before print June 8, 2009, doi:10.1073/pnas.0904063106
By studying termites' immune systems scientists have found a sweet solution to getting rid of the pests, but in a green way.
Writing in this week's PNAS, Northeastern University researcher Mark Bulmer and his colleagues have discovered a natural way to suppress the immune systems of termites making them vulnerable to overwhelming fungal infections. The team began by studying how the insects normally keep themselves infection-free.
This is achieved using a family of substances called GNBPs - gram negative bacteria binding proteins - which lock onto chemical structures on the surfaces of pathogens and neutralise them. They are particularly effective against a fungus called Metarhizium anisopliae, which is killed when one of the GNBPs - GNBP-2 - breaks down essential molecules called glucans in its cell walls. But by modelling the structure of GNBP-2, and how it locks onto the fungal cell wall structures, the team were able to pick out a naturally-occurring and generally non-toxic sugary substance - D-gluconolactone - that would bind tightly to and block the GNBP-2.
Giving this substance to termites effectively rendered them chemically blind to the fungus, which attacked and killed them.
'This [gluconolactone],' say the researchers, 'is an alternative to toxic pesticides given that is it natural, non-toxic and biodegradable.' The team also point out that since other species of insects share GNBP-2 with termites it might also work further afield against other crop pests.
'Because D-gluconolactone is a product of a biosynthetic pathway, plants could conceivably be engineered to produce it in high amounts and in specific compartments, which would bolster their immunity to pest attacks
References
- Mark S. Bulmer, Ido Bachelet, Rahul Raman, Rebeca B. Rosengaus, and Ram Sasisekharan; Targeting an antimicrobial effector function in insect immunity as a pest control strategy; PNAS; published online before print June 8, 2009, doi:10.1073/pnas.0904063106
HOW TO CHOOSE QUALIFIED TERMITES EXTERMINATION SERVICES?
No structural pest causes more confusion than termites. Most homeowners have little knowledge of these troublesome insects, and what it takes to get rid of them. Our understanding of termites has progressed considerably in recent years.
Termites may even begin attacking soon after construction. Properly treating the soil beneath and around the foundation with termiticidal chemicals before construction, called a pretreatment, reduces the threat of subterranean termites.
If you suspect you have a termite infestation, the following steps will help you select a termite control service:
1. Seek recommendations from others in your social network such as friends, relatives, and coworkers who know of at least a few local termite extermination services. They may have personal experience with the services recommended, so you can ask questions regarding the general performance of each service.
2. Make use of other local resources to collect data on termite extermination services that operate within the area. Consult the local business directory. Pest control companies that are established and have built a strong reputation within the community often hold membership in the local chamber. In addition, the information available from the chamber of commerce will probably include a contact name, telephone number, and possibly an email address. Seek at least 3 different proposals.
3. With a list of potential termite extermination services assembled, your next task is to begin qualifying each service on your list. One important consideration is to make sure any exterminator that visits your property is properly certified. Insect control services are usually forthcoming about the status of their certification and do not mind providing proof. Should any service balk at supplying this type of information, cross it off your list and keep looking.
4. Verify that the termite extermination services you select is a member of your state pest control association and the National Pest Control Association. Membership in the National, and state or local pest control associations is a good indicator that the company has access to modern technical information . In the area of termite control, their commitment to further education is important, particularly with the newer baits and baiting techniques on the market.
5. Determine if the extermination company has a license. In a lot of states, companies such as this nature ought to be licensed to continue operating their company. If the termite control company doesn’t have one, then ask them to produce one or if not, search for a company which already has one.
6. Establish whether the extermination company has insurance. It ought to carry a general liability policy of at least 1 million dollars which is the standard for any industry as well as any legitimate company. This is important incase anything goes wrong for any reason related to the company you’re going to work with.
7. Inquire about their standard procedures for getting rid of those unwanted termites. This should cover the length, the kind of terminating procedures, especially the safety of the procedures they will be employing. You need to ask a lot regarding their procedures to ensure the safety of your family, workers, kids, plants as well as animals if you have one.
8. Hire a termite extermination service which offers some sort of service guarantee. If the company you’d be hiring is good and very well skilled, then they ought to grant warranty with their work and offer a money back guarantee if there procedures turn out to be ineffective.
Weighing all the factors will result in the selection of a termite extermination service that charges an equitable fee and also does an excellent job. These points are some ideas you may follow to look for the best termite control company in your local.
Termites may even begin attacking soon after construction. Properly treating the soil beneath and around the foundation with termiticidal chemicals before construction, called a pretreatment, reduces the threat of subterranean termites.
If you suspect you have a termite infestation, the following steps will help you select a termite control service:
1. Seek recommendations from others in your social network such as friends, relatives, and coworkers who know of at least a few local termite extermination services. They may have personal experience with the services recommended, so you can ask questions regarding the general performance of each service.
2. Make use of other local resources to collect data on termite extermination services that operate within the area. Consult the local business directory. Pest control companies that are established and have built a strong reputation within the community often hold membership in the local chamber. In addition, the information available from the chamber of commerce will probably include a contact name, telephone number, and possibly an email address. Seek at least 3 different proposals.
3. With a list of potential termite extermination services assembled, your next task is to begin qualifying each service on your list. One important consideration is to make sure any exterminator that visits your property is properly certified. Insect control services are usually forthcoming about the status of their certification and do not mind providing proof. Should any service balk at supplying this type of information, cross it off your list and keep looking.
4. Verify that the termite extermination services you select is a member of your state pest control association and the National Pest Control Association. Membership in the National, and state or local pest control associations is a good indicator that the company has access to modern technical information . In the area of termite control, their commitment to further education is important, particularly with the newer baits and baiting techniques on the market.
5. Determine if the extermination company has a license. In a lot of states, companies such as this nature ought to be licensed to continue operating their company. If the termite control company doesn’t have one, then ask them to produce one or if not, search for a company which already has one.
6. Establish whether the extermination company has insurance. It ought to carry a general liability policy of at least 1 million dollars which is the standard for any industry as well as any legitimate company. This is important incase anything goes wrong for any reason related to the company you’re going to work with.
7. Inquire about their standard procedures for getting rid of those unwanted termites. This should cover the length, the kind of terminating procedures, especially the safety of the procedures they will be employing. You need to ask a lot regarding their procedures to ensure the safety of your family, workers, kids, plants as well as animals if you have one.
8. Hire a termite extermination service which offers some sort of service guarantee. If the company you’d be hiring is good and very well skilled, then they ought to grant warranty with their work and offer a money back guarantee if there procedures turn out to be ineffective.
Weighing all the factors will result in the selection of a termite extermination service that charges an equitable fee and also does an excellent job. These points are some ideas you may follow to look for the best termite control company in your local.
5 MOST COMMON SIGN OF TERMITES INFESTATION
Termites can cause significant damage to homes, wood structures or furniture. While there are many signs of termites that can be found in your home, sometime they can be very difficult to spot. This is because termites are cryptic creatures and infestations can go undetected for years. Here are the most common signs of termites that homeowners should look for. Should you see any of these signs, you should contact a professional termites exterminator immediately.
These are the common sign of termites present in your home that you should look for.
1. Termites Swarms
Termite swarm is a large group of termites that exits the ground and flies away all at once. Termite swarms occur when winged adults look for new colonies.They tend to be attracted to light. If they emerge at night, they might swarm around some of your lights. You can also find them in spider webs around light sources Typically, termites swarm in the daytime right after rains. The swarm lasts just a few minutes, though, so you might only see the wings they leave behind. Swarms are often one of the first signs of termites.
2. Mud Tubes
Termites travel through these mud tubes on their way from the soil to a food source. These are small, enclosed tubes that are made of mud or clay and are one of the most obvious signs of termites. . Look for these tubes on basement walls, wooden posts and door and window trim . Mud tubes are easy to identify when located on the exterior of the building, but are often located inside of a crawl space where they go undetected until severe damage occurs. Follow the tunnel all the way up, and you'll see that it terminates into a floor joist or a structural beam. When you reach that piece of lumber or wood, try tapping it with a screwdriver. If it makes a hollow sound, try inserting the screwdriver; if it goes in easily, termites have hollowed out the softer inside of the wood.
3. Wood damage
Termites eat wood from the inside out, so damaged wood is may hard to find. Break open hollow-sounding wall studs, baseboards and floors. Inside the wood, a honeycombed pattern is typical, as termites feed along the grain on the softer spring growth. Their excavations often are packed with soil. Worst-case scenario: bulging walls. Above-ground carton nests of Formosan termites — an especially robust species — can cause this alarming sight. Examination of this wood reveals that it is full of holes, which indicates termite problems. This is one of the solid signs of termites and should be taken care of immediately.
4.Wall Noises
Keep your ears open. Termites sometimes make noises within the inside of the building walls, although this is not always one of the signs of termites. The sound of termites with walls is often described as a crackling or popping noise (Tick-Tick-Tick). This noise only occurs when termites are disturbed by loud noises or smells and is a warning indicator to other termites. If the sound is ongoing, it is probably another wood boring insect and not a termite. To be doubly sure the sound is made by termites, make a small hole at the infested area. If live termites come out of their hiding place, the spot is considered active with termite infestation.
5. Live termites
Life termites are soft and are easily desiccated, light-colored and can range from 1/16 to 1/2 inch in length. They move away quickly when exposed to light.
What do you do if one or more of these signs are found? Do NOT spray with aerosol or any liquid. Do NOT vacuum the mud traces. Do NOT wipe or clean off the mud traces. Seal the hole or crack with cellophane tape.
If you are still not too sure whether the indications that you have observed are signs of termite infestation, you can get a professional termites exterminator who has seen them all — and more — a hundred times before
These are the common sign of termites present in your home that you should look for.
1. Termites Swarms
Termite swarm is a large group of termites that exits the ground and flies away all at once. Termite swarms occur when winged adults look for new colonies.They tend to be attracted to light. If they emerge at night, they might swarm around some of your lights. You can also find them in spider webs around light sources Typically, termites swarm in the daytime right after rains. The swarm lasts just a few minutes, though, so you might only see the wings they leave behind. Swarms are often one of the first signs of termites.
2. Mud Tubes
Termites travel through these mud tubes on their way from the soil to a food source. These are small, enclosed tubes that are made of mud or clay and are one of the most obvious signs of termites. . Look for these tubes on basement walls, wooden posts and door and window trim . Mud tubes are easy to identify when located on the exterior of the building, but are often located inside of a crawl space where they go undetected until severe damage occurs. Follow the tunnel all the way up, and you'll see that it terminates into a floor joist or a structural beam. When you reach that piece of lumber or wood, try tapping it with a screwdriver. If it makes a hollow sound, try inserting the screwdriver; if it goes in easily, termites have hollowed out the softer inside of the wood.
3. Wood damage
Termites eat wood from the inside out, so damaged wood is may hard to find. Break open hollow-sounding wall studs, baseboards and floors. Inside the wood, a honeycombed pattern is typical, as termites feed along the grain on the softer spring growth. Their excavations often are packed with soil. Worst-case scenario: bulging walls. Above-ground carton nests of Formosan termites — an especially robust species — can cause this alarming sight. Examination of this wood reveals that it is full of holes, which indicates termite problems. This is one of the solid signs of termites and should be taken care of immediately.
4.Wall Noises
Keep your ears open. Termites sometimes make noises within the inside of the building walls, although this is not always one of the signs of termites. The sound of termites with walls is often described as a crackling or popping noise (Tick-Tick-Tick). This noise only occurs when termites are disturbed by loud noises or smells and is a warning indicator to other termites. If the sound is ongoing, it is probably another wood boring insect and not a termite. To be doubly sure the sound is made by termites, make a small hole at the infested area. If live termites come out of their hiding place, the spot is considered active with termite infestation.
5. Live termites
Life termites are soft and are easily desiccated, light-colored and can range from 1/16 to 1/2 inch in length. They move away quickly when exposed to light.
What do you do if one or more of these signs are found? Do NOT spray with aerosol or any liquid. Do NOT vacuum the mud traces. Do NOT wipe or clean off the mud traces. Seal the hole or crack with cellophane tape.
If you are still not too sure whether the indications that you have observed are signs of termite infestation, you can get a professional termites exterminator who has seen them all — and more — a hundred times before
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)