There are more than 4,000 termite species in the world with around 2,600 are taxonomically known. They comprise of 285 genus and 7 families. In Malaysia, a total 175 termite species are from 3 different families. However, only 10% of these species are classified as structural pest of economic importance. The rest is considered as beneficial pests as they recycle humus and soil.
World Termite Species
The world termite colonies span the tropical and subtropical areas between the 45 degrees latitude and 50 degrees north and south respectively. The termite distribution mainly relies on the amount of rainfalls and temperature. Generally, there are three distinct termite ecological classes:
- Subterranean termites – termite colonies that require contact with the soil or earth and normally dwell underneath your building structure. They can easily be identified by the mud tubes they construct or plastering on the wall surface.
- Dry wood termite – does not require soil contact to live and develop their colonies inside the timber structure itself.
- Damp wood termite – live in structures with high moisture contents.
Subterranean Termites: Damaging Termite Species
Out of these ecological classes, subterranean termites are the most damaging accounting ti eighty percent (80%) of damages in Malaysia. The most destructive are from the genus Coptotermes of the Rhinotermitidae family. Its 5 common species are Coptotermes travians,Coptotermes Curvignathus, Coptotermes Kashorverni, Coptotermes Sepangensis and Coptotermes Havilandi.
Termite Species Economic Impact
The economic impact of termites is worth millions of dollars every year. This figure doesn’t include the repair cost. It is very important for home owners to have an understanding of termites, their biology and habits to be able to protect their own property.
As one of the leading and reputable Termite Control company in Malaysia, ENVIROCON Pest Management Sdn. Bhd. is highly capable to identify termite species and recommend the most suitable and cost effective termite treatment methods.
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