Landscapers may contribute to the spread of the Formosan subterranean termite. It spreads naturally through swarming and budding but at a slow rate. It is being spread much more rapidly by humans.
This termite hitches a ride to new areas in infested cellulose. At the time of this writing, the number one method of spreading the Formosan subterranean termite is infested railroad ties. The second most important method of spreading the Formosan subterranean termite is infested utility poles. Other methods of spreading the termite include: wood from structures, lumber, pallets, landscape timbers, wood used in the oil industry, firewood, trees, woody plants, sawdust, mulch, wood in boats, potted plants, mobile homes, homes and paper.
Do NOT move cellulose from infested areas unless you are sure the material is not infested. EVERYONE has a responsibility to prevent the spread of termites! If there is a doubt about whether or not material is infested, either do NOT move the material or treat it properly before moving it. The Formosan subterranean termite is known to infest parts of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas.
To determine if material is infested, make a thorough inspection looking for termites, damaged wood, soil, mud tubes and carton nest. Infrared photography may be used to help determine if the inside of wood is infested.
Additionally, landscapers can help determine where the Formosan subterranean termite is located to help prevent its spread. They can help in this effort by sending winged termites and soldiers (termites with large, orange-yellow heads) in for identification. Send termites to 404 Life Sciences, Department of Entomology, LSU Agricultural Center, Baton Rouge, LA 70803-1710.
Termites should be collected and placed in 100% alcohol and sent for identification. Include your name, location (street address or road, city, zip code) termites were collected, parish, and material or plant collected from. Contact your county agent for help in sending termites or for further information. Please send in termites.