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Soldier of the related Formosan subterranean termite (Coptotermes formosanus), which is not found in Australia
Image by United States Department of Agriculture - License: Public Domain. (view image details)
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Queen termite of the related Formosan subterranean termite (Coptotermes formosanus), which is not found in Australia
Image by United States Department of Agriculture - License: Public Domain. (view image details)
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INSECT FACTS |
Identification
Coptotermes acinaciformis is a subterranean termite. These termites are very destructive. Soldier termites produce white milky liquid from their mandibles and are aggressive. They are found underground an avoid the light. They may travel underground up to 100m from the colony in search of food.
Size
Body size 4mm -6mm
Habitat
forest, urban areas with eucalypt gum trees
Food
cellulose from wood
Breeding
Coptotermes acinaciformis build their nest within the base of a tree or underground. A colony may have over a million termites. They also build subsidiary nests away from the main colony. In buildings, subsidiary nests may be built in wall cavities, provided there is access to moisture (e.g. from leaking water pipe).
Range
found throughout Australia except Tasmania
Notes
Coptotermes acinaciformis is highly destructive to buildings and timber structures. This is the most widespread termite pest in Australia, and is responsible for over seventy percent of serious termite damage to buildings. Australia. If you suspect that you have these termites, arrange a termite inspection with a reputable termite exterminator company.
Classification
| Class: | Insecta | | Order: | Isoptera | | Family: | Rhinotermitidae | | Genus: | Coptotermes | | Species: | acinaciformis | | Common Name: | Subterranean Termite |
Relatives in same Genus
Subterranean Termite (C. frenchi)
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