Conehead Termite Biology

The conehead termite (Nasutitermes corniger) is broadly distributed across Central and South America and many islands in the Caribbean. The biology of this particular species differentiates it from other termites introduced into the United States and makes successful eradication possible if aggressive efforts are supported now.

Food, Habitat and Reproduction

Conehead termites have broad food and habitat preferences. They consume anything made of wood or cellulose and build their nests almost anywhere. They also have diverse reproductive options that differ from those of other termites. These characteristics make conehead termites particularly adaptable and exceptionally swift colonists.

Conspicuous Tunnels and Nests

All other exotic termites that have invaded the United States remain hidden underground or in wood for their entire life cycle, making it impossible to find and treat each colony. In contrast, established conehead termite colonies reveal themselves by building conspicuous aboveground foraging tunnels and nests. FDACS’s vigilant, repeated inspections have therefore been successful in locating active conehead termite colonies and suppressing the conehead termite invasion.

Conehead Termite Program's Science Advisor

Since fall 2012, Dr. Barbara L. Thorne, a termite biologist and expert on the conehead species, has served as FDACS’s Science Advisor on the Conehead Termite Program. She also chairs the National Scientific Advisory Committee for the Conehead Termite Program, which consists of termite researchers who volunteer to evaluate and make recommendations about the FDACS program.

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