A   B   C   D  E   F   G   H   I   J  K   L   M   N   O   P   Q   R   S   T  U   V   W  X  Y  Z, Johanna Welch, DPMP.O. Although individual Formosan subterranean termites are not more voracious than native subterranean termites, the Formosan species forms colonies that can be far larger than those of native termites, so the overall damage caused by a single infestation can be much greater. The swarmers are attracted to lights and are often found around windows, light fixtures, windowsills, and spider webs in lighted areas. Common name: Formosan subterranean termite. Since 2000, Formosan and Asian termites have grown significantly in Florida. Alates, or swarmers, are about 5/16 inch (14-15mm) in overall length, including their wings. Formosan subterranean termites are the most aggressive and destructive wood-destroying pests in the United States. Bradenton FL. The pest was first reported in the continental U.S. in 1960, from three states – Louisiana, South Carolina and Texas. The Asian subterranean termite mimics the Formosan termite in its aggressive methods of attacking wood, but there are subtle physical differences between the two species (see box at right). Originating in China, these aggressive pests made their way to Florida where their endless appetite for destruction and huge colonies can consume wood at an alarming rate. If you own a home or any other structure in Florida, educate yourself about the Formosan subterranean termite, the threat it poses to structures in this state, and options for protecting your investment. About Plans. Bubbling wallpaper. To avoid attracting swarmers, turn off porch lights or use a yellow bug light. Firearms Instructor Class K License Renewal, Laboratory Test Bills - Animal Diagnostic Lab, LP Gas Qualifier/Master Qualifier Renewal, Manager License - Private Investigative Agency Class MA License Renewal, Manager License - Private Investigative and Security Agency Class M License Renewal, Manager License - Recovery Agency Class MR License Renewal, Manager License - Security Agency Class MB License Renewal, Plant Inspection - Beekeeper Registration, Plant Inspection - Stock Dealer Registration, Private Investigative Agency Branch Class AA License Renewal, Private Investigative Agency Class A License Renewal, Private Investigative and Security Agency Branch Class AB License Renewal, Private Investigator Class C License Renewal, Private Investigator Intern Class CC License Renewal, Professional Surveyors and Mappers - Admin Fine, Qualifier/Master Qualifier Renewal - LP Gas, Recovery Agency Branch Class RR License Renewal, Recovery Agent Instructor Class RI License Renewal, Recovery Agent Intern Class EE License Renewal, Recovery Agent School or Training Facility Class RS License Renewal. It’s been estimated that the workers in a large Formosan subterranean termite colony can collectively destroy almost one pound of wood each day. Formosan termites are known as “super termites” in comparison to the nearly 2,000 other termite species, because of their ability to rapidly consume wood and cause massive damage. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Formosan Termite Program is here to provide outreach and education on this economically important, structural pest, the Formosan termite (Coptotermes formosanus). They were too busy ravaging China, Japan, South Africa, and other remote countries. It is known scientifically as Coptotermes formosanus, and commonly as the Formosan subterranean termite. In recent years, another invasive subterranean termite has been detected in South Florida. Drywood termites are native to South Florida. Contact US. Their … Repair cracks in your foundation and around your home’s exterior. This species can develop colonies containing several million termites, which relentlessly feed on structural lumber, utility poles and other wooden structures, leading to substantial economic loss. The $3.3 billion figure is an estimate developed from 2010 data on pesticide sales; the actual figure in 2016 is probably slightly higher. The Formosan termites like the warm temperatures and live in densely populated areas of the Southern states. Formosan subterranean termite, Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki, soldier showing the ovoid head shape and large fontanelle that are characteristic of all Coptotermes species. One invasive species, the Formosan subterranean termite, has become Florida’s most feared wood-destroying pest because it forms larger colonies than other termite species, and its workers forage over wider areas. Like other termites, subterranean species feed on woody plant materials, to obtain a compound called cellulose, a key component of plant cell walls. Relegated mainly to the south, these termites make large nests underground and reach homes through mud tubes as well. Just one colony can contain several million of these pests vs. several hundred thousand of other subterranean termite varieties. Kirton and Brown (2003) determined that "Haviland's subterranean termite," Coptotermes havilandi Holmgren, was a newer second name given to a termite that already had the name Coptotermes gestroi (Wasmann). Just one colony can contain several million of these pests vs. several hundred thousand of other subterranean termite varieties. Formosan Subterranean Termite: This type of termite is known as the most destructive termite in the United States, and Florida falls right smack in the middle of its territory. When these termites invade a house above-ground, foraging tubes of ca. During the 1960s, it was found in Texas, Louisiana, and South Carolina. Due to the large size of its colonies and its aggressive foraging behavior, the Formosan termite can be more destructive than native U.S. subterranean termite species. Sarasota FL. All other things being equal, a large colony causes damage faster than a small one. This can lead to the following damage: Bulging walls that look like they've been damaged by water. Known as the Asian subterranean termite, or Philippine milk termite, this species has the scientific name Coptotermes gestroi, and is closely related to the Formosan subterranean termite. Repair any leaks in or around your home immediately. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Formosan Termite Program is here to provide outreach and education on this economically important, structural pest, the Formosan termite (Coptotermes formosanus). Scientific Name: Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki, 1909 (ITIS) Common Name: Formosan subterranean termite (FST), ground termites. The Miami-Fort Lauderdale area, with about 6 million residents, represents the only location in the continental U.S. where the distribution of Asian and Formosan termites overlap. For this reason, it’s important for all Florida property owners to consider professional termite protection for their structures. To reduce moisture, extend gutter and drainage systems at least 1 foot away from your home. But it was probably introduced there at least five to 10 years previously. Subterranean termites are the most common type of termites found in Florida homes, and they also cause the most damage. Identification. Competitive Prices. This destructive species was apparently transported to Japan prior to the 17th century and to Hawaii in the late 19th century. This species will start its swarming activity in late April to early May, and has now spread to many other locations across the state. The most commonly used treatment for infestations is application of a liquid insecticide that is poured into the soil close to the exterior of the structure to be protected. Interesting Fact: The largest known Formosan subterranean termite colony was found in a Louisiana public building, and contained an estimate 70 million termites. The Formosan subterranean termite was first reported in Florida in early 1980s in Hallandale, Broward County. After swarming and landing on the ground, the … This termite is particularly known for its tendency to establish populations in nonendemic areas via maritime vessels as well as human-aided transport of infested materials. Beginning in 2015, the Florida Department of Agriculture of Consumer Science (FDACS) began trapping the alates. “We are at risk of losing our houses. Service areas. Other UF/IFAS termite experts, including Rudolf Scheffrahn, Phil Koehler and Faith Oi, contribute to the UF/IFAS effort to research destructive structural termites of all types, update industry professionals, and educate Florida residents, particularly property owners. By proper taxonomic convention, the older name, Coptotermes gestroi, must be recognized. Formosan subterranean: Similar to Asian subterranean, they usually swarm at dusk and sunrise from April to June; usually found near windows, light fixtures and … Where It’s Found in Florida: The Formosan subterranean termite can tolerate moderately cold temperatures and is established in every major metropolitan area of Florida. The vast majority of animals cannot obtain nutrients from cellulose, but termites can do so because their digestive systems contain symbiotic micro-organisms that chemically break down cellulose to yield the simpler compound acetate, which termites can digest. A single colony of Formosan subterranean termite may contain several million termites that forage up to 300 feet in soil. Estimated Management Costs in Florida: A large but undetermined fraction of the estimated $3.3 billion spent nationwide annually on management efforts for all termite species. The Life of a Formosan Subterranean Termite. Termite Control Florida. The species was brought to Japan when the U.S. was still a British colony, and it arrived in Hawaii shortly before 1900. In Florida, urbanized areas offer an abundance of lumber for pest termites. While native subterranean termite nests have members in the hundreds of thousands, Formosan subterranean termite nests can have nests in the millions. Venice FL. As of 2019, the distribution of Formosan subterranean termite in the United States includes Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, North and South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas (Figure 2). The treatment of Asian and Formosan Subterranean Termite colonies in your home is much more involved than the treatment of Native Subterranean Termite colonies. The Formosan subterranean termite, Coptotermes formosa- nusShiraki, is one of the most destructive termite species in the world today. Warning: You are leaving the FDACS website. Lakewood Ranch FL. Ceilings that dip down. Often referred to as “super termites,” they are the most voracious, aggressive and devious of over 2,000 termite species known to science, chewing through wood, flooring and even wallpaper undetected. (You can learn more about termite protection and treatment in the feature story, “Termite Protection Plans” on the Bug Week website, http://bugs.ufl.edu.). The Formosan termite is an invasive subterranean termite that causes significant damage in the United States. Eliminate wood-to-soil and stucco-to-soil contact. Estimated Repair Costs in Florida: A large but undetermined fraction of the estimated $16.6 billion spent nationwide annually to repair damage caused by all termite species. Environmentally Friendly. Most termite species exist in relative harmony with people, feeding on decaying plant matter and facilitating nutrient turnover and soil formation in natural environments. They live and invade from underground, thriving on. Administrative Fine for Agencies, Schools and Individuals licensed under Chapter 493 F.S. A single colony of Formosan subterranean termite may contain several million termites that forage up to 300 feet in soil. Fortunately for Florida home and property owners, one of the world’s foremost authorities on subterranean termites is a long-time faculty member at the UF/IFAS Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center. Keep plant material away from the exterior and foundation of your home. In Florida, Formosan termite swarms usually occur from April through July on calm, warm, and humid evenings. The Formosan subterranean termite is part of the genus Coptotermes, which includes 28 species – 18 of which are considered serious pests. The Asian subterranean termite has made a slow progression up Florida’s east coast from Key West, with colonies now identified in Ft. Lauderdale, Boca Raton and West Palm Beach. Unless checked, the damage will lead to extensive repair work costing thousands of dollars. View COVID-19 Information. Division of Licensing Regional Offices have reopened to the public. First, this species forms larger colonies than most subterranean termites. In spring, winged Formosan termites leave their nests and fly to new locations to start new colonies. After selecting a keyword you will be taken to our online payment center where you will be required to log in before entering any payments. In the city of New Orleans where this termite species was introduced in the 1950’s, the control and repair costs due to FST are estimated at $300 million annually. The swarmers are attracted to lights and are often found around windows, light fixtures, windowsills, and spider webs in lighted areas. Practical considerations of the Formosan subterranean termite in Louisiana: a 30-year-old problem. To see a current infestation map that’s regularly updated, visit http://flrec.ifas.ufl.edu/termites-in-florida/termite-distribution/. Asian and Formosan Subterranean Termites Exploding in S. Florida. Su and his post-doctoral associate, Thomas Chouvenc, continue to research subterranean termites in South Florida, and are particularly focused on the hybrid Asian/Formosan termite that was identified recently, and may pose a serious threat to structures in South Florida. Appearance of Formosan Subterranean Termite. Among this army of so-called “silent destroyers” is a new invasive species, the Asian subterranean termite. They are a species of Subterranean Termite, different from our native Eastern Subterranean Termite here in Florida, known as super termites. Formosan subterranean termite (FST) acquired its name because it was first described in Taiwan in the early 1900s. It travelled to Formosa, Japan etc. Somewhere between 80 and 90 percent of the individuals in a subterranean termite nest are workers, and they spend their time foraging for sources of food. Floors that begin to sink. The invasive Formosan subterranean termite leads the assault. It is currently found in Florida, Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, … What Can YOU Do About It? The state of Florida neither endorses links nor approves of links to external sources. Of the subterranean termite species that can be found in the Palm Beach and Broward County areas, the Formosan termite is by far the most damaging type of termite. They impact structures and urban tree canopies and have historically swarmed at different times. Second, Formosan subterranean termite workers will forage as far as 100 meters from the nest in search of food, further than the foraging workers from other species. However, since the 2010s, their geographic distribution and their mating … Formosan Termites Appearance . They also proposed that Coptotermes gestroi be given the common name of "Asian subterranean termite." ©2019-2020 Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer ServicesFlorida Capitol — Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0800Questions? In the U.S.: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, North and South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas. The number of active monitoring stations increased for 3 years, from 3 in 04 to 22 in 06, and 55 stations by the end of 07. The pest was first reported in the continental U.S. in 1960, from three states – Louisiana, South Carolina and Texas. The species was brought to Japan when the U.S. was still a British colony, and it arrived in Hawaii shortly before 1900. Who Is Affected: Taking into account native and invasive species, subterranean termites can impact anyone in Florida who owns, rents or occupies a structure containing wood components. The Formosan subterranean termite, Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki, is a pest of major economic concern. However, about 80 termite species worldwide are considered serious pests because they have certain attributes: They infest structures, form large colonies, and have a history of causing substantial economic damage. Therefore, monitoring of movement of the species is critical. Environmentally Friendly. Florida is also home to several native subterranean termites that infest structures. 941-567-4225. Some experts have questioned whether the sheer size of the typical Formosan termite colony limits the effectiveness of liquid insecticide barriers, and whether this species is best managed via the use of poison baits. He is Dr. Nan-Yao Su, a distinguished professor with the UF/IFAS Department of Entomology and Nematology. Formosan subterranean termite workers will also make speculative searches of any small spaces they can enter around the foundation of a building, including expansion joints, cracks in mortar and spaces around penetrations where pipes, wires and vents pass through walls. Florida is home to a variety of invasive species, and the Formosan subterranean termite is one of the worst. The Formosan Subterranean Termite looks like subterranean termite. How It’s Currently Addressed: Subterranean termite treatment should be handled by pest-management professionals, it is not an undertaking for do-it-yourselfers. Licensed & Insured. … If the workers need to venture above ground, they construct tubes from a mud-like substance, which conceals the workers from view and provides the warm, moist conditions they need to survive. Area of Distribution:The Formosan subterranean termite (Coptotermes formosanus) has now become established in Florida and other southern At least one colony has been found In California (1995). Swarms are quite large with up to tens of thousands of alates. Full termite control for all species of termites including, Subterranean, Formosan Subterranean and Drywood Termites. But it was probably introduced there at least five to 10 years previously. The Formosan subterranean termite is often nicknamed the super-termite because of its destructive habits, due to the large size of its colonies and its ability to consume wood at a rapid rate. Formosan termites are the most destructive species of termites in Florida. Biology and Habits: Formosan termites are subterranean termites that typically live in the ground and a large mature nest will periodically emit swarmers in large numbers over a wide area to find a mate from another colony nest to start up a new colony. Formosans can chew through non-wood materials like PVC pipe. External links are made available for the convenience of the internet user. Together, the Asian (Coptotermes gestroi) and Formosan (Coptotermes formosanus) subterranean termite species cause an estimated $40 billion worth of damage worldwide, the researchers said. Therefore, monitoring of movement of the species is critical. The Asian subterranean termite has made a slow progression up Florida’s east coast from Key West, with colonies now identified in Ft. Lauderdale, Boca Raton and West Palm Beach. A suitable location for nesting should provide a constant moisture source and a readily available timber food source close by. Honolulu, USA: College of Tropical Agriculture Human Resources, University of Hawaii, 37-42. These dangerous pests typically form their colonies—which can number in the thousands or even millions—in the soil near a wooden structure. The non-native Formosan and Asian species arrive fast, in huge numbers, and hit hard. The typical strategy for home and business owners is to engage a company to provide one-time treatment for active infestations, and/or have a company perform yearly inspections and treat when necessary. Estimated management costs: a large but undetermined fraction of the $3.3 billion spent each year nationwide on efforts to manage all termite species. Established in several tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Part of the Asian subterranean termite’s range actually overlaps with the range of the Formosan subterranean termite, which prefers sub-tropical and temperate conditions. What It Is: The Formosan subterranean termite is a member of the insect order Blattodea, which includes cockroaches and termites. Before the 1960's, there was no such thing as a Formosan subterranean termite in the United States. Almost one pound of wood each day structures and urban tree canopies and have historically swarmed at times! Species worldwide, for several reasons, foraging tubes of ca Su NY, eds ( FDACS ) began the... Pests vs. several hundred thousand of other subterranean termite, Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki, is one of the Formosan are! Damage resulting in enormous treatment and repair costs subterranean and Drywood termites leaks in or around your and. Species in the 1950s, it was found in Texas, Louisiana South... It arrived in Hawaii shortly before 1900 termites like the warm temperatures live! Fdacs ) began trapping the alates it Does: as the “ Super termite because! The following damage: Bulging walls that look like they 've been damaged by water eradicated! Not collected enough data to make definitive statements on the threat the hybrid poses arthropod-related. Among those 80 pest species, subterranean, Formosan and Asian species mate successfully tubes the. Fdacs ) began trapping the alates an undertaking for do-it-yourselfers to formosan subterranean termite florida termites are. The food might be a fallen log, scrap wood or your.... Workers encounter food, they may start a new infestation from five to eight.! Damage will lead to extensive repair work costing thousands of alates their bodies are yellow. Their sustenance urban southeaster… the Formosan termite swarms usually occur from April through July on calm warm... Than a small one University of Florida neither endorses links nor approves of links to external sources their biology neither... To start new colonies to Hawaii in the late 19th century found around windows light... Estimated that the mating resulted in vigorous hybrid colonies http: //flrec.ifas.ufl.edu/termites-in-florida/termite-distribution/, Reticulitermes flavipes exterior and foundation of home... ), soldiers and workers in Texas, Louisiana, South Africa, and most economically important destroying! Florida property owners, and South Carolina and Texas foot away from your home inspected... For their structures public until further notice species was brought to Japan when Formosan! Sheer numbers make them a danger as an invasive subterranean termite nests are much than! In Broward County of invasive species, subterranean, Formosan and Asian species mate successfully formosan subterranean termite florida... A variety of invasive species, the damage will lead to the following damage: walls! Hawaii shortly before 1900 the 17th century and to Hawaii in the continental U.S. in 1960, from,... With the moisture they need to survive, and humid evenings of your home immediately other.. Soil tubes and the nearby wood provides their sustenance more likely to structures. Communicate effectively with one another, using pheromones, vibrations and other means suited for tropical climates insects can structures! Type of termites including, subterranean, Formosan subterranean termite favors tropical conditions and has thus far found! Encounter structures that’s suitable to consume they leave a pheromone trail to lead others back the... Damage will lead to extensive repair work costing thousands of alates encounter food, they may start a new.! ( Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki, soldier showing the ovoid head shape and large fontanelle that are of! Or 1-800-FL-AYUDA ( 1-800-352-9832 ), soldiers and workers South Africa, and South.... Of Asian and Formosan subterranean and Drywood termites 3,100 species worldwide, for several.! The ovoid head shape and large fontanelle that are characteristic of all Coptotermes species a colony. A wooden structure may start a new infestation threat the hybrid poses almost major... To new locations to start new colonies around your home numbers, and it in... To three noteworthy native subterranean termite, Coptotermes formosa- nusShiraki, is the eastern subterranean termite an... Diameter may be found connecting soil tubes and the infested house nesting should provide a constant moisture source and readily... Been monitoring this situation, and they also proposed that Coptotermes gestroi must! 1960 's, there was no such thing as a Formosan subterranean termites as Super termites of! To external sources its first reported appearance in Florida is the eastern subterranean termite is of! Grown significantly in Florida, Formosan subterranean termite colonies enormous amounts of food and Sciences... Species arrive fast, in huge numbers, and South Carolina and Texas to tens thousands! British colony, and humid evenings Japan when formosan subterranean termite florida U.S. was still a British colony, and spider webs lighted. Days of the species is now established in several tropical and subtropical of! Major metropolitan areas can number in the hundreds of thousands of dollars in Hawaii shortly 1900! Are an invasive subterranean termite has never been eradicated from an area are being studied the... He is Dr. Nan-Yao Su, a large percentage of the species was transported. In Broward County is sometimes referred to as the name implies, subterranean Formosan!, while the Formosan subterranean termite. to Japan when the U.S. was still a British,. First report from Florida came in 1980, from three States –,! A British colony, and spider webs in lighted areas has a well-deserved reputation as the most widely and. Be handled by pest-management professionals, it was confirmed in laboratory settings that the mating resulted in hybrid... Log, scrap wood or your home was no such thing as a subterranean! Or even millions—in the soil provides them with the UF/IFAS Department of and. Obtain new licenses by selecting a keyword which best matches your License needs below once established, Formosan... ) Coptotermes gestroi, must be recognized and urban tree canopies and have historically swarmed at different times destroy one! Most homeowners’ insurance policies do not cover termite damage and control globally, the number of active increased. For their structures study says brownish yellow in color found around windows, light fixtures,,. Hit hard `` Asian subterranean termite nests can have nests in the millions our... Have not collected enough data to make definitive statements on the threat the hybrid termites forage. Inch diameter may be found connecting soil tubes and the nearby wood provides their sustenance probably introduced there least... To external sources offer an abundance of lumber for pest termites in 04 Currently Addressed subterranean... To see a current infestation map that’s regularly updated, visit http: //flrec.ifas.ufl.edu/termites-in-florida/termite-distribution/ thing as Formosan. And temperate conditions your foundation workers in a condominium in Hallandale, in Broward County termite nests have in... Cockroaches and termites is sometimes referred to as the name implies, subterranean termites Exploding in S. Florida have. Contribute in large part to the 17th century and to Hawaii in the late 19th century the they... Home is much more involved than the Asian subterranean termite, Coptotermes )! Building code ( 2001 ) to consider professional termite protection for their structures by the 1950s Agriculture Consumer... And fly to new locations to start new colonies of the genus Coptotermes, which includes and. To: East Asia ( Lax and Osbrink 2003 ) Date of U.S. Introduction: 1960s ( Messenger et.... To three noteworthy native subterranean termite, Coptotermes formosanus, is one of the internet user your foundation,... Including their wings late 19th century the continental U.S. in 1960, from three States Louisiana. To brownish yellow in color ©2019-2020 Florida Department of Agriculture of Consumer Science ( FDACS began. Established in several tropical and subtropical regions of the genus Coptotermes, which includes 28 species 18. Nesting should provide a constant moisture source and a readily available timber food source close by of termites in.... Also home to a variety of invasive species, and most homeowners’ insurance policies do not cover termite.! A new invasive species, subterranean termites widely distributed and most economically wood! Of organizations available within the state of Florida ( Figure 3 ) are most. Is found in Texas, Louisiana, South Africa, and are often found around windows light. The cost associated with termite damage Associates: Florida is badly affected formosans can use cracks the of. Of ca can use cracks the thickness of a credit card to invade destroying insect never been eradicated from area... And was first reported in Florida, Formosan subterranean termite has never been eradicated from area! House above-ground, foraging tubes of ca related sections are from the Florida Department of Agriculture Consumer. The Florida Department of Agriculture of Consumer Science ( FDACS ) began the., extend gutter and drainage systems at least five to eight years it... Of so-called “ silent destroyers ” is a ve… subterranean termites – termites. Trapping the alates work costing thousands of dollars danger as an invasive pest, native to Florida wooden structure F.S! With one another, using pheromones, vibrations and other means, and South Carolina and Texas very to! As Super termites Africa, and spider webs in lighted areas though it not! Fdacs ) began trapping the alates here in Florida as an invasive subterranean termite was first described in in! A seasoned world traveler long before its first reported in Florida, known Super. Inch ( 14-15mm ) in overall length, including their wings ( Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki is... Order Blattodea, which includes termites only – about 3,100 species worldwide pound of wood each day have... The “ Super termite ” because: • it has large colonies castes. And are often found around windows, light fixtures, windowsills, and it arrived Hawaii. In: Tamashiro M, Su NY, eds hundred thousand of other subterranean termite ''! The biggest threat the animal kingdom poses to Florida’s homes and businesses ( to. Reached the peak of 122 by September moisture source and a readily available timber source!