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Winged alates 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
These subterranean termites are highly destructive. Soldier termites produce milky liquid from a gland on their head when disturbed. They may travel underground up to 70m from the colony in search of food. The termite has saber shaped mandibles. The head is pear shaped. There is an obvious fontanelle on the front part of the head.
Size
Soldier length: 4mm
Habitat
Found in living and dead tree trunks, tree stumps, and underground.
Food
cellulose from wood
Breeding
Coptotermes frenchi usually build their nest in the root crown or lower trunk area of living eucalypt trees. In dryer areas, they may build their nest as a mound.
Range
Coastal Queensland, New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory, Victoria, South Australia and Western Australia. This species is responsible for most timber termite pest damage in the ACT region
Notes
This termite causes damage to Eucalyptus trees, power poles, fence posts, timber building structures. Coptotermes frenchi can cause severe damage to building structures, often devouring the timber and only leaving a thin veneer. They are reclusive and will retreat temporarily from a location if disturbed. If you suspect that you have these termites, then arrange a termite inspection with a one of your local termite extermination companies.
Classification
| Class: | Insecta | | Order: | Isoptera | | Family: | Rhinotermitidae | | Genus: | Coptotermes | | Species: | frenchi | | Common Name: | Subterranean Termite |
Relatives in same Genus
Subterranean Termite (C. acinaciformis)
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