Convex drywood termite

The Kalotermes convexus is a species belonging to the order Isoptera and the family Kalotermitidae. Unlike subterranean termites, this species is adapted to live exclusively within dry wood without needing contact with the soil. They are significant pests that can thrive in both natural forest ecosystems and man-made wooden structures or orchard trees.

These termites primarily infest dead, dying, or stressed timber. In agricultural settings, they are known to attack orchard trees by entering through wounds, pruning cuts, or areas of dead bark. Once inside, they create complex tunnel systems that weaken the structural integrity of the branch or trunk, significantly impacting the health and lifespan of the plant.

The biology of Kalotermes convexus is unique as they lack a true worker caste; their labor is performed by nymphs. The colony grows slowly, often hidden deep within the wood for many years. New colonies are initiated by swarming alates that seek out suitable crevices or decayed spots on host trees to establish a new nesting site.

Damage is often identified by the presence of small, characteristic fecal pellets (frass) pushed out from tiny kick-out holes in the wood. Internally, the termites consume the wood, leaving hollowed-out chambers that follow the grain. Over time, this leads to structural failure of the plant tissue, making it susceptible to pathogens and physical damage from wind or heavy fruit loads.

Effective management requires a combination of cultural and chemical methods. Key strategies include:

• Regular sanitation by pruning and removing infested or dead branches.
• Sealing mechanical wounds on trees with protective sealants.
• Applying systemic insecticides or local injections for severe infestations.
• Monitoring swarming periods to protect vulnerable orchards.