Nasutitermes Walkeri
Nasutitermes walkeri is a termite species found in the Central Coast and Lake Macquarie, NSW, Australia, known for causing damage to homes and buildings. These termites, commonly known as the Tree Termite, are of particular concern to property owners in the region. This comprehensive guide will provide essential information about Nasutitermes walkeri, including their identification, behavior, and effective prevention and control methods to help you protect your property and family from these unwelcome pests.
Identification and Characteristics:
- Size: Workers measure 3-4 mm in length, while soldiers are larger at around 4-6 mm
- Color: Light brown to cream-colored body with darker heads
- Physical Features: Soft-bodied insects with six legs and a pair of antennae; soldiers have a distinctive, elongated, cone-shaped head
Behavior and Habitat:
Nasutitermes walkeri are arboreal termites, which means they primarily nest in trees. They build extensive tunnel systems and galleries within the tree trunk and branches, foraging for cellulose-rich materials, such as wood and bark. Although they primarily infest trees, they can also cause significant structural damage to homes and buildings if they find a suitable food source.
These termites typically gain entry into homes through direct wood-to-tree contact, such as when a tree branch is in contact with a wooden structure. They can also construct mud tubes to bridge gaps between the tree and wooden structures, allowing them to access vulnerable areas without being exposed to the open air.
Signs of Infestation:
Detecting a Nasutitermes walkeri infestation can be challenging due to their arboreal nature and preference for infesting trees. Here are some common signs of infestation:
- Tree damage: Infested trees may exhibit signs of wood damage, such as hollowed-out areas, weakened branches, or a honeycomb-like pattern in the damaged wood.
- Mud tubes: These pencil-thin tubes made of soil and termite feces can be found on tree trunks, branches, or connecting trees to nearby wooden structures, providing termites with a protected route to access a food source.
- Swarming: Winged reproductive termites, or alates, typically emerge in warm, humid weather to mate and establish new colonies. You may see swarming termites near light sources or find discarded wings near trees, doors, windows, or vents.
Prevention and Control Methods:
Preventing a Nasutitermes walkeri infestation is crucial to protect your property and family from the potential damage these termites can cause. Here are some effective prevention and control methods to consider:
- Maintain tree health: Healthy trees are less susceptible to termite infestations. Regularly prune dead or dying branches and remove any damaged or decaying wood from your property.
- Eliminate wood-to-tree contact: Ensure that no tree branches are in direct contact with your home’s wooden structures, such as siding or roof eaves. This can help prevent termites from accessing your home through direct contact with infested trees.
- Regular inspections: Schedule professional termite inspections annually to detect and address any infestations early on. This should include a thorough inspection of trees on your property to identify any signs of termite activity.
- Chemical barriers: A licensed pest control professional can install a chemical barrier around your property to prevent termites from accessing your home. This may include the use of liquid termiticides or baiting systems.
- Physical barriers: Installing physical barriers such as metal termite shields or stainless steel mesh around vulnerable areas of your home can help prevent termites from entering. These barriers should be installed during the construction phase and require regular maintenance to ensure their effectiveness.
- Reduce moisture: Termites thrive in damp environments, so it’s essential to address any moisture issues on your property. Repair leaking faucets, pipes, and air conditioning units, and ensure that gutters and downspouts are functioning properly to direct water away from your home’s foundation and nearby trees.
- Proper storage of firewood and lumber: Store firewood and lumber at least 20 feet away from your home and elevated off the ground to reduce the likelihood of attracting termites.
- Regular monitoring: Keep a close eye on any signs of termite activity, such as tree damage, mud tubes, or discarded wings, and take immediate action to address any potential infestations.
Conclusion:
Nasutitermes walkeri is a destructive termite species that can cause significant damage to trees and potentially homes and buildings in the Central Coast and Lake Macquarie, NSW, Australia. By understanding the characteristics, behavior, and signs of infestation, homeowners can take proactive measures to prevent and control these unwelcome pests. Remember that early detection and intervention are crucial in minimizing the impact of termite infestations. If you suspect a termite problem, it is essential to consult a licensed pest control professional for a thorough inspection and appropriate treatment options.
