Adamson's termite

Adamson's termite (Kalotermes adamsoni) is a member of the order Isoptera, family Kalotermitidae. Commonly known as a drywood termite, this species is native to Australia. Unlike subterranean termites that require constant soil contact to maintain moisture, this species is adapted to thrive in wood with low moisture content, extracting all necessary water from their cellulose diet.

This pest affects a wide range of woody plants and structural timber. In an agricultural and forestry setting, they compromise the integrity of orchard trees, fence posts, and timber-based infrastructure. They typically establish colonies in dead or decaying sections of otherwise healthy trees, eventually expanding into sound wood as the colony grows.

The biological cycle of this species occurs entirely within a single piece of wood. The colony structure includes kings, queens, soldiers, and nymphs. New colonies are initiated by alates (winged reproductives) that swarm, find a suitable site in the timber, and seal the entrance. The development from egg to mature individual is a slow process, ensuring the colony remains hidden for years.

Damage caused by Kalotermes adamsoni is insidious, as they leave a thin outer shell of wood intact while consuming the interior. This makes visual detection extremely difficult until structural failure occurs. The primary diagnostic sign is the presence of frass — tiny, six-sided, pellet-like fecal droppings pushed out of small kick-out holes in the infested wood.

Control measures must focus on both preventive and curative strategies. For preventative care, construction timber should be treated with borate-based preservatives or insecticide-infused resins. If an infestation is confirmed, localized treatments such as chemical injection into galleries or, in severe cases, whole-structure fumigation by professionals are the most effective ways to eradicate the colony.