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Formosan Subterranean Termites

Identification, Habits, and Control
Closeup photo of a Formosan Termite

About Formosan Subterranean Termites

Species: Coptotermes formosanus
Formosan subterranean termites are one of the most aggressive and destructive termite species. Known for their large colony sizes and rapid feeding behavior, they can cause significant structural damage in a shorter period of time compared to other termite species.

How to Identify Formosan Subterranean Termites

Size

  • About 1/8 inch long

Color

  • Creamy white (workers)
  • Yellow-brown (swarmers)

Identifying Characteristics

  • Large colony size
  • Mud tubes and carton nests
  • Swarmers attracted to light
  • Highly active feeding behavior

Where You’ll Find Them

  • Underground and above-ground nests
  • Inside walls, attics, and structural voids
  • Moist areas within structures
  • Around foundations and wood elements

Behavior and Risks

Formosan termites form extremely large colonies that can contain hundreds of thousands to millions of individuals. This allows them to feed aggressively and expand rapidly once established. Unlike other subterranean termites, they are capable of building secondary nests above ground in areas with sufficient moisture, allowing them to spread throughout a structure more quickly. 

Homeowners may notice signs such as extensive mud tubes, damaged wood, or swarms of winged termites attracted to light. Activity may appear more widespread compared to other termite species due to their large colony size. 

Because of their aggressive feeding behavior, damage can progress more quickly and affect multiple areas of a structure at once. Without intervention, Formosan termite infestations can lead to significant structural damage and ongoing expansion within the property.