Desert Subterranean Termites
According to Roger Gold, professor and specialist in urban entomology, subterranean termites are the most destructive insect in the United States. The desert subterranean termite causes in excess of $2 billion in property damage each year. This figure represents more damage to property than is caused by windstorms and fire combined. This species of termite is found in the dry desert climates of western Texas. The desert subterranean termite possesses long and slender mandibles, which are notably different from the short, wide organs of other termite species, and it can feed during dry conditions. The desert termite builds tube-shaped homes from mud, which the insects suspend from overhangs and wooden ceilings. These termites burrow into wooden structures in search of the cellulose and are capable of causing considerable damage. In this species of termite, both the workers and the soldiers are small, which allows them access to areas that other termites would not be able to reach.
Formosan Termites
According to Jerry Naiser, arborist and horticulturist, the Formosan termites cause damage quicker than desert subterranean termites. This species feeds on both spring- and summer-growth wood. Formosan termites are able to eat through thin sheets of rubber, lead, plaster and copper to reach food and moisture. This species feeds on more than 47 types of trees and plants, including citrus. Formosan termites originate from Japan, China and Formosa, and were introduced into the United States through military supply crates following the Second World War. These termites were first identified in Texas during 1956. Formosan termites have been positively identified in nineteen counties in Texas.
Drywood Termites
This termite derives its name from the insect's habit of living in dry wood. Drywood termite colonies are typically not as large as those of the subterranean termites. Multiple colonies of drywood termites are frequently found in the same building. These termites live in the wood and move about by burrowing along the grain. This species of termite can be found wherever wood is present and in wooden floors, walls, ceiling beams and furniture.