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What Does a Termite Look Like?
Termites are destructive, wood-boring insects often mistaken for flying ants. There are many different species of termites, each with its own unique appearance. While each species is different, many share many similarities.
A termite’s main characteristics include:
- Termites range in size from ¼ – ½”
- Different termite castes are different colors, from off-white to dark brown
- All termites have segmented bodies: a head, thorax, and abdomen
- Adult termites have 6 legs and straight antennae
- Swarmer termites (reproductives/alates) possess wings
Termite Appearance
Termites can vary in appearance due to species and even between castes of the same species. Since termites are rarely seen, working with a professional pest control expert can help you identify what type of termite is on your property. Some common termites you may find in your Memphis TN Metro Area home include:
- Dampwood termites are much larger than other termites. They often have a reddish tint on their bodies.
- Drywood termites have transparent to grayish wings and are usually a yellow-brown color.
- Subterranean termites are typically off-white to dark brown/black in color.
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Characteristics of Termite Castes
In a termite colony, there are three main types of castes, each with its own role to keep the colony thriving. Termites within a caste can appear vastly different than their colony mates. The tree castes in a termite colony are:
- Workers: Workers are the largest caste and will have an off-white to creamy color.
- Soldiers: Soldiers have a striking resemblance to ants with their large dark heads and strong mandibles.
- Alates/Swarmers: These reproductive termites can vary in color but can be easily identified by their wings, which they eventually discard.
How to Spot Termites Near Your Home
Termites are homeowners’ worst nightmares. It is rare to see a termite in your home, even if you have a major infestation inside your walls. Since they can be difficult to detect, it is important to work with a professional termite exterminator for annual inspections. At Allied Termite & Pest Control, our skilled technicians can easily identify the type of termite in your home and expertly eliminate any infestation.