Asian Subterranean

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Close-up of numerous termites crawling on a piece of wood, showcasing their small brown bodies and busy activity as they navigate through the textured surface.

What do Asian subterranean termites Look Like?

  • The reproductives lay the eggs. Each colony only has one pair of primary reproductives and these darker and larger termites can live for up to 20 years and lay 1,000 eggs each day, which is how their colonies get so large, so fast. They are the only ones who have eyes, the rest of the termites are blind.

  • The soldiers defend their nest from invaders. This blind caste of Asian sub termites has a larger sized jaw and head to help block the tunnels of the colonies from intruders. They produce a rattling sound which is something that they do to warn off nest-mates by banging their heads against the walls of the tunnels. If the colony is large enough and the environment quiet enough, this sound can be heard in infested buildings.

  • Asian subterranean termites resemble their cousins, the Formosan Subterranean termites in some ways, but not in others. They have huge underground colonies, and their sheer numbers and size far surpass their Formosan cousins. They also build large mud carton nests in the walls of structures. The Asian Sub Termite has 3 distinctive castes in their colonies.

  • The workers work for their colony. They dig tunnels, care for the young and gather food. These small milky white termites have saw-tooth mandibles that allow them to take small bites of wood and carry it back to the nest. These are the ones actually causing the destruction.

    • When are Asian subterranean termites Active?

    Asian subterranean termites are active year-round in Florida with an increased level of activity in the spring months when they swarm to start new colonies.

    What Attracts Asian subterranean termites?

    Swarmers of Asian subterranean termites are attracted to lights. These destructive pests like to live in dark, humid, and moist areas that offer them cellulose for food.

    Where are you likely to find Asian subterranean termites?

    Asian subterranean termites build their nests underground or in walls of buildings. They are particularly common in South Florida because of the warm and humid climate. Some common areas that you could find them swarming include wooden structures (beams, studs, joists, etc), attics and basements, crawlspaces, and wooden porches and decks.
    If you have concerns around these areas, be sure to get in contact with us to schedule a termite inspection.

    Are Asian subterranean termites Dangerous or Destructive?

    Asian Subterranean termites are extremely destructive. These termites breed quickly and quietly. The queen can lay up to 1,000 eggs each day which causes the colony to grow very fast. They eat cellulose found in wood, so wooden structures in buildings and wood products like playground equipment and fences are on their menu.

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