Termites are small destructive insects belonging to the order Isoptera. Termites are often called “silent destroyers” due to their ability to chew through wood, furniture, and even wall wallpaper. There are about 220 species of termites found in India, which are often divided into four main types namely subterranean termites, drywood termites, dampwood termites, and conehead termites. About which we will discuss in detail in the article given below.
1. Odontotermes obesus
2. Coptotermes formosanus
3. Macrotermes gilvus
4. Microtermes obesi
5. Heterotermes indicola
6. Nasutitermes spp.
7. Globitermes sulphureus
8. Amitermes spp.
9. Glyptotermes dilatatus
10. Cubitermes spp.
Subterranean Termites
Subterranean termites are one of the most common types of species found in India. They live underground in large colonies (almost 2 million termites in a single colony). They build mud tubes to access food sources above ground. These termites are notorious for causing extensive damage to wooden structures.
Subterranean termites are social insects that live in large colonies underground. They are usually dark or black in color and range in size from a quarter to half an inch. They have two sets of wings of the same size. They have a caste system comprising workers, soldiers, and reproductives. Workers are responsible for foraging food, while soldiers defend the colony. Reproductives are responsible for mating and establishing new colonies.
Distribution in India
Subterranean termites are found throughout India, thriving in warm and humid climates. They are particularly prevalent in regions with abundant moisture and wood.
Damage caused
These termites feed on cellulose materials, including wood and plant fibers, leading to structural damage in buildings. They can weaken wooden structures, causing floors, walls, and even foundations to become unstable.
Drywood Termites
Drywood termites differ from subterranean termites in that they do not require contact with the soil to survive. Instead, they infest dry wood found in buildings, furniture, cupboards, and other wooden structures.
Characteristics
Drywood termites form small colonies within the wood they infest. In terms of appearance, they are typically tiny termites—roughly the size of a grain of rice. These termites have a brown or cream color. They are capable of surviving in relatively low moisture conditions, making them a threat to dry areas.
Distribution in India
Drywood termites are found in various parts of India, particularly in coastal regions and areas with dry climates.
Damage caused
These termites tunnel through wood, causing extensive damage to wooden furniture, door frames, cupboards, tables, and structural beams. Their presence may go unnoticed for long periods, leading to significant structural deterioration.
Dampwood Termites
Dampwood termites thrive in moist environments and are commonly found in decaying wood, including fallen trees and damp structural timber.
Characteristics
Dampwood termites are larger in size(being nearly 1 inch) compared to other termite species and prefer wood with high moisture content. They often infest damp areas of buildings, such as basements and crawl spaces.
Distribution in India
Dampwood termites are found in regions of India with high rainfall and humidity, such as coastal areas and tropical forests.
Damage caused
These termites feed on wet or decaying wood, contributing to the decomposition of organic matter. They can cause significant damage to wooden structures if left unchecked.
Conehead termites, also known as scutiform termites, are an invasive species native to the Caribbean but have been reported in parts of India.
Characteristics
Conehead termites are aggressive foragers and builders, capable of constructing large above-ground nests resembling mounds. They exhibit similar behaviors to subterranean termites but are more aggressive in their feeding habits.
Distribution in India
Although not native to India, conehead termites have been reported in some regions, posing a threat to wooden structures and vegetation.
Damage caused
These termites can cause extensive damage to wooden structures and vegetation, leading to economic losses and environmental degradation.
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Conclusion
Termites are a significant threat to homes and buildings in India, with several species causing damage to wooden structures. Understanding the characteristics and behavior of different termite species is essential for effective termite control and prevention.
