Latin name: Coptotermes spp., Schedorhinotermes spp., Nasutitermes spp. and other Isoptera species
Termites are among Australia's most destructive structural pests, causing millions of dollars in damage to homes and buildings each year. Found throughout the country, subterranean termites are the most common species encountered, living in underground colonies and travelling through mud tubes to reach timber and other cellulose-based materials. They thrive in warm, moist conditions and often remain undetected until significant damage has occurred.
Unlike ants, termites feed continuously on timber from the inside out, weakening structural timbers, flooring, fences, retaining walls and other wooden structures. Regular inspections are essential for early detection and effective management.
Lifecycle
Termites undergo incomplete metamorphosis and live in highly organised colonies.
- A queen lays thousands of eggs each year.
- Eggs hatch into nymphs that develop into workers, soldiers or reproductive termites.
- Winged reproductives (alates) swarm during suitable weather to establish new colonies.
- Worker termites forage continuously for timber and return food to the colony.
Established colonies can survive for many years if left untreated.
Identification
- Workers are creamy white and soft-bodied, measuring 3–6 mm long.
- Soldiers have enlarged amber or brown heads with strong jaws.
- Winged reproductives are dark-bodied with two pairs of equal-length wings.
- Mud shelter tubes are commonly found on walls, foundations and tree trunks.
- Timber often sounds hollow when tapped.
- Discarded wings may be found around windows and lights after swarming.
Damage
- Hollowed timber with a thin outer surface remaining.
- Weakening of structural timbers, flooring and framing.
- Mud tubes on walls, foundations and piers.
- Doors and windows becoming difficult to open due to timber distortion.
- Expensive structural damage if infestations remain undetected.
SOLUTIONS
At the first signs of termite activity: Arrange a professional termite inspection immediately and avoid disturbing mud tubes or damaged timber before treatment.
Around homes and commercial buildings: Apply Surefire Termiticide & Insecticide as a continuous soil barrier around structures in accordance with the product label.
During new construction or renovations: Install a preventative soil treatment using Surefire Termiticide & Insecticide before slabs or paving are completed to provide long-term protection.
To reduce the risk of infestation: Eliminate timber-to-soil contact, repair leaking pipes, improve drainage and schedule regular professional termite inspections, particularly in high-risk areas.
References
https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/pest-insects/termites
https://www.csiro.au/en/research/natural-environment/pests/termites
https://stratagreen.com.au/collections/insecticides-pesticides
Note: Termite control in Australia is highly regulated. While Surefire Termiticide & Insecticide is appropriate for preventative and remedial barrier treatments, active infestations should always be inspected and treated by a licensed pest management professional in accordance with Australian Standards (AS 3660).
