Sonneratia termite

Taxonomic position: Neotermes sonneratiae belongs to the order Isoptera and the family Kalotermitidae. These insects are classified as drywood termites, known for their ability to thrive inside wood without requiring contact with the soil, which distinguishes them from many other termite species.

Affected crops: This species is primarily associated with mangrove forests and various tropical woody plants. It poses a significant threat to timber resources and agricultural plantations in regions where these environmental conditions are met, causing structural failure in infected wood.

Biology and lifecycle: The life cycle of Neotermes sonneratiae is entirely contained within the host wood. The colony is structured into castes, and the developmental stages occur in galleries carved by the termites. They regulate the moisture and temperature inside these galleries to ensure the survival of the reproductive pair and the brood.

Damage patterns and economic impact: The damage caused by Neotermes sonneratiae is insidious because they excavate the interior of branches and trunks while leaving the exterior surface mostly intact. This internal erosion significantly compromises the structural integrity of the plant, often leading to sudden limb failure or tree death.

• Regular monitoring of tree trunks for frass pellets and entrance holes.
• Immediate removal and disposal of infested wood to prevent colony spread.
• Application of wood-penetrating insecticides in early stages of infestation.
• Selection of resistant tree varieties in high-risk tropical areas.