T09 · Termite
Subterranean Termites
Coptotermes acinaciformis
The 'silent destroyer'. Causes more damage to Australian homes than fire, flood and storms combined.
- Size
- 4–10 mm
- Habitat
- Soil, damp timber, wall cavities
- Activity
- Year-round, hidden
Safety Warning
If you see mud tubes or swarmers, do NOT disturb them. Call a licensed timber-pest technician immediately.
Overview
Subterranean termites live in large underground colonies and travel through mud tubes to reach timber in your home. They eat cellulose 24/7 and damage is often invisible until a skirting board crumbles or a door frame collapses. Standard home insurance does NOT cover termite damage — annual inspections are critical.
How to identify
- Workers: creamy-white, soft body, 4–6 mm
- Soldiers: pale body with large brown head and pincers
- Mud tubes (pencil-thin earth tunnels) on foundations, piers or walls
- 'Hollow' sounding timber, blistering paint, sagging floors
- Swarming winged 'alates' after summer rain, often near lights
General guidance only. Information on Home Pest Defence is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional advice. For termites, venomous spider bites, wasp nests in walls, or protected wildlife, contact a licensed pest controller, your GP, or the relevant state wildlife authority. In emergencies call 000; for poisoning call 13 11 26.