What are termites?

What are termites?

Termites are a delicacy in the diet of some human cultures and are used in many traditional medicines. Several hundred species are economically significant as pests that can cause serious damage to buildings, crops, or plantation forests.

Where can I find termite research and control information?

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has several termite research and control programs. Provides invaluable research on different termite control treatments and technologies. The U.S. Forest Service provides research support related to termites. They publish news and events for the public on termites and termite control.

Where do termites live in Africa?

Originally living in the rainforest, fungus farming allowed them to colonise the African savannah and other new environments, eventually expanding into Asia. Depending on their feeding habits, termites are placed into two groups: the lower termites and higher termites.

How many species of termites are in the genus Coptotermes?

Among the termite genera, Coptotermes has the highest number of pest species of any genus, with 28 species known to cause damage. Less than 10% of drywood termites are pests, but they infect wooden structures and furniture in tropical, subtropical and other regions.