
Community identification
Dampwood Termite
Zootermopsis spp.
- Order & Family
- Order Blattodea, Family Archotermopsidae
- Size
- 1/2 inch to 1 inch long (alates/swarmers with wings can be longer)
Natural Habitat
Damp or decaying wood with high moisture content, often found in logs, stumps, or water-damaged wooden structures.
Diet & Feeding
Cellulose derived from damp, rotting timber and wood-based materials.
Behavior Patterns
Eusocial insects that live in colonies; swarmers are reproductive members that fly out to establish new colonies, typically after rain. They shed their wings after landing.
Risks & Benefits
Benefits the ecosystem by decomposing dead wood and recycling nutrients; however, they can cause significant structural damage to homes if high moisture environments exist.