Scientific Name: Coptotermes formosanus
The Formosan termite is part of the Rhinotermitidae family of termites, which includes subterranean termites.
Distribution in the U.S.
Formosan termites can be found throughout the southern U.S., including Louisiana, Texas, Hawaii, California, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee.
Formosan termites originated in China and Taiwan and entered Japan in the 1500s. Experts believe they entered the continental U.S. via military ships in the mid-1940s, during World War II. However, this species was present in Hawaii before 1900.
Behavior
Although the Formosan termite is a subterranean termite, it does not require constant soil contact. These termites are known to build aboveground nests, called cartons, in locations where there is an optimal temperature and moisture source. These nests can be located in walls and attics.
Formosan termite nest under floor:
Do Formosan Termites Damage Homes?
Formosan termites are the most destructive termite species in the U.S., as they form the largest colonies of any species. These colonies can contain millions of termites and can cause extensive damage in relatively short periods of time. In ideal conditions like those found in Hawaii, experts estimate they can cause major structural damage to a home in only six months.
Formosan termite damage can be found in many places, from homes, buildings and boats to crops, dead trees and live trees. Formosan termites also can infest wooden railroad timbers and are thought to spread through the transport of recycled railroad timbers often used in landscaping. Pest control experts recommend examining wood for signs of termites before using it in home or garden projects.
According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Americans spend more than $1 billion annually to repair property damage caused by Formosan termites and to implement Formosan termite control measures. Just in the greater New Orleans area, the cost of Formosan termite damage and treatment is an estimated $300 million annually.
What Do Formosan Termites Look Like?
Formosan termite swarmers are larger than swarmers in other subterranean species. These alates can measure a 1/2 inch, including their wings, which are pale yellow and covered with tiny hairs.
Soldiers are approximately 1/4 inch long with yellowish-colored bodies and distinctive, tear-shaped orange-brown heads. Soldiers also have an opening on their head (a fontanelle) that they use to release a sticky substance to slow down their enemies.
When Do Formosan Termites Swarm?
Formosan termites typically swarm at night during the late spring. However, the exact swarm season varies based on the temperature and other weather conditions.