Dampwood Termites Uncovered

Termites are eusocial insects that live in colonies. They are known for their silent destruction of wooden structures. A general opinion that termites only have negative impact prevails, but more than 90% of the termite species make many constructive contributions to the world’s ecosystems. They recycle wood and plant material and thus contribute greatly to the world we live in. They ensure the porosity of the soil by their tunneling efforts. The fecal-soil mixture contains nutrients that are healthy enough to support plant growth. In deserts, their activities are very important in reclaiming the soils damaged by drying heat, wind, and overgrazing.

Dampwood termites are fairly common in coastal areas. They nest in wood that are buried in the ground. When the infested wood is high in moisture, they do not need any contact with the ground. These termites require high moisture for their lively hood and are oftentimes found in cool, humid areas along the coast. Dampwood termites can be identified by their distinctive fecal pellets that are rounded at both ends, elongate, and lack the clear longitudinal ridges like that of drywood termite pellets.

The following are some of the well-known species of dampwood termites: Zootermopsis angusticollis, Zootermopsis nevadensis, Neotermes species, and Paraneotermes simplicicornis. Dampwood termite colonies do not have worker caste. The nymph termites take good care of the kings and queens of the colony and also feed the soldier caste. They depend on excessive moisture for their lively hood and that is why they are not found in structures that are usually dry. Dampwood termites are usually larger in size than other species of termites.

Dampwood termites obviously gravitate to woods with high moisture contents, whereas drywood termites prefer woods with lower moisture contents. This tendency can be understood by a close study of their digestive system. Drywood termites have the ability to live by the water that they produce while digesting the cellulose, whereas dampwood termites do not have this metabolic capacity and they need an external water source that will assist them in digestion and keep them healthy.

However, this doesn’t mean that they are inhabitants of different types of wood. It means that if there is a termite infestation in timber with excess moisture perhaps due to a leak form plumbing or drainage, the infestation is more likely by dampwood termites.

Before any control program, a thorough inspection of the building must be done. Verification, identification, and assessment of termites and the extent of their infestation and damage will help in effective treatment of the infested structure.

Special skills and a working knowledge of building construction are essential for a successful termite management. An understanding of termite biology and identification of termite species will be of great help to detect problems and understand methods of control. An integrated program to manage termites must be used in case of infestation. A combination of physical and chemical means will ensure the elimination of termites from the infested structure.

As the saying goes prevention is better than cure, building designs that may contribute to termite invasion must be avoided. Attic and foundation areas must be well ventilated and dry. Chances of infestation can be reduced by removing or protecting any wood that is in contact with the soil.

Natural Flea Control

Dean Gallagher
Termitexpel.Com