April Formosan Termites in Mulch


Left: Winged Formosan Right: Formosan Carton Nest	*April* PEST OF THE MONTH Formosan Termites in Mulch

There is currently an email circulating about infested wood being made into mulch and shipped to Texas. This email is likely a hoax, but it has some truth to it.

There are Formosan termites in New Orleans and the surrounding areas - even after the floods. There is also a lot of wood debris that could potentially become infested if it wasn't already. It is very unlikely that termites would be able to survive the mulching process. It is much more likely that they will enter the mulch as it sits and waits to be taken away or bagged. In addition, the area is under quarantine and wood products cannot be transported or must be fumigated, treated and inspected first. Products that are being moved from hurricane affected areas are being done so illegally, and I doubt reputable businesses such as Lowes and Home Depot (which are mentioned in the email) would be buying from these individuals.

But, the fact is that we do not know if termites are in the mulch, and we do not know where the mulch will pop up (illegally or otherwise). Therefore, it would be a good idea to inspect your mulch before you purchase it. If you spread it out and see termites, use a pesticide labeled for termites or soil dwelling insects. Your home is your largest investment, so I would use a chemical pesticide (such as fipronil or permethrin) that has been tested through replicated research as opposed to an organic product or nematodes. A group of Formosan workers can "make" a colony without having a queen or reproductive to start with, so waiting for nematodes to take effect may be too late! In addition, research has shown that nematodes only kill about 30% of the population, and with Formosans, that is just not good enough. I describe Formosan termites as "super termites." They are very veracious feeders and can turn a house into splinters in no time.

In addition, you should be much more concerned about getting Formosan termites from using railroad ties for landscaping purposes. Railroad ties are the number one cause of Formosan spread. You are much more likely to get Formosan from old railroad ties than mulch. Also, Formosans have already been found in San Antonio, and have the potential to spread on their own as a result. If you discover any type of termite in your home, the best thing to do is call a pest control professional. They are the only ones who have the right tools to treat your home effectively.

If you have any questions please contact me and I'll be happy to give you additional information on termites or you can download the Formosan Termite publication at: http://tcebookstore.org/tmppdfs/10227015-1020.pdf
See also http://termites.tamu.edu/