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  6. Formosan subterranean termite

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Formosan subterranean termite

The formosan subterranean termite is one of the most destructive termite species in the world. It can be found in China, Taiwan, Japan, South Africa, Sri Lanka and the USA (including Hawaii).

A photo of a few formosan A photo of damage done to a wooden floor by formosan A photo of a mass of tiny formosan
Note: images are not to size

The risk to Australia

The formosan subterranean termite forms large colonies, which can quickly cause major structural damage to timber and timber components in housing and furniture. The termite has the potential to devastate Australia’s forests and native bush as well as have a major impact on timber-based industries.

What the formosan subterranean termite looks like

The formosan termite lives in a colony that contains distinctive groups called ‘castes’. These castes look different from one another and each has a special duty to carry out in the colony. A termite worker is pale yellow in colour. It builds nests from a substance that resembles paper but is actually made from soil, timber and other plant material, which is mixed together with its saliva and faeces.

A termite soldier is approximately 12 to 15 millimetres long, is pale yellow and has large dark ‘teeth’. When disturbed, it exudes drops of milky fluid from its head.

An alate termite has wings, is yellowish-brown and is typically seen between early spring and midsummer swarming in large numbers at dusk.

What to look for

Nests are made in soil, wood, hollows or spaces between walls and floors. They can be found in shipping containers, timber products and timber yachts. The termites are attracted to lights and are often found around windows, light fixtures, windowsills and in spider webs.

SEE. SECURE. REPORT.

If you see this pest or any other pest that you think may have hitchhiked to Australia, contain it where possible and immediately report it to the Department of Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry on 1800 798 636.

For safety, consult a departmental entomologist before handling specimens.

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Call 1800 900 090

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Other format

This information is also available in the following format:

  • Formosan subterranean termite fact sheet (PDF 362 KB)
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Page last updated: 10 January 2023

We acknowledge the continuous connection of First Nations Traditional Owners and Custodians to the lands, seas and waters of Australia. We recognise their care for and cultivation of Country. We pay respect to Elders past and present, and recognise their knowledge and contribution to the productivity, innovation and sustainability of Australia’s agriculture, fisheries and forestry industries.

Artwork: Protecting our Country, Growing our Future
© Amy Allerton, contemporary Aboriginal Artist of the Gumbaynggirr, Bundjalung and Gamilaroi nations.

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