How do I Identify Termite Types?
- Subterranean termites are some of the most problematic for humans. They belong to the family Rhinotermitidae, and always live in contact with the ground or with damp wood for species found in Florida. Subterranean termites must enter wood from the ground, and they will often build earthen tubes to facilitate this. Look for these tubes and at the size of the insect --- members of this family are about one-quarter of an inch in length, which is about half the size of any other termite. If you are in the northeastern United States, subterranean termites are the only type present.
- These types of termites are classified in the family Termitidae and can be found in the southwestern United States. Their colonies typically form in wood that is either contacting the ground or underground. This often includes fallen logs and even dried cow patties. Soldierless, desert and nasutiform termites are not usually pests, though they can be if they get inside your home.
- Termites in the family Kalotermitidae are found in the southern and western United States, and reach lengths of about half an inch. Colonies nest in dry or damp wood above ground, and commonly attack human structures. Powder-post termites can reduce wood to dust and are particularly troublesome. While Rhinotermitids and Termitids have a small depression on the top of the head between the eyes, Kalotermitids do not.
- Rotten-wood termites are found in moist, dead wood both at ground level and above. Along with the Kalotermitids, this family, Hodotermitidae, lacks the depression on the top of the head, but members are typically found in more moist environments. Rotten-wood termites live in the western and southwestern United States.