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Spiders | Brown Recluse Spiders | Ants | Fleas | Termites | Mice | Other Pests
Termites
Termites belong to the insect order Isoptera. In nature, termites are considered beneficial because they break down dead and dying plant material. It is when termites feed on wooden structures that they become pests. Subterranean termites are in Kansas and are the kind most commonly encountered.
Subterranean termites nest in the soil from which they obtain their moisture. They may attack any wood in contact with the soil. If there is no direct wood to soil contact, the termites may build mud tubes or tunnels within the cracks of foundations or over the outside of concrete to reach wood several feet above the ground. Subterranean termites need a constant, ample supply of moisture.
Occasionally, subterranean termites can be found above ground, isolated from the soil. This can occur if moisture is available from a source other than the soil. Common sources include condensation, and leaking pipes and roofs. Wood is made up primarily of cellulose, a large complex chain of relatively simple chemical molecules.
Few animals have the necessary body chemistry to break down cellulose into smaller, more usable nutrients. Termites accomplish this by the presence of protozoa in their hindgut. These protozoa break down the cellulose into products that the termites can digest. If these protozoa are removed, the termites will eventually die of starvation.
We can protect your home environment from Termites. Ask about our Termite Inspection Service and Termite Extermination Services.
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Spiders | Brown Recluse Spiders | Ants | Fleas | Termites | Mice | Other Pests
