How Important Are Termites for the Ecosystem?
Termites have been very aptly named `Silent destroyers’ thanks to their ability to damage foundations, flooring and even wallpaper without getting detected. Often, by the time the homeowners become aware of their presence in their homes, thousands worth of damage is already done. Each year termites cause damage worth $5 Billion in the United States. But termites are good for the ecosystem?
Although there are around 3,000 known termite species in the world, only a few are responsible for the damage caused to our homes. Termites role in the environment is considered quite crucial, including the Queens County ecosystem.
According to the researchers at Princeton University termite mounds do the job of oases in deserts. They help the plants around them to sustain on a fraction of the rainfall they normally require. So, in a way, these mounds help prevent desertification of dry land.
Termites and the Ecosystem: What Are Termites?
These pale, blind, half-inch vermin are also considered to be the ultimate soil engineers. As they dig through the ground, they allow rain to seep into ground through the holes made by them. Termites also help mix organic and inorganic particles of the soil and this helps prevent soil erosion.
Termites are considered equally important for plant life in forests. They feed on the dead and fallen trees and leave behind a number of different nutrients that refurbish the soil and help new plants grow again. Without them forests will be clogged with dead trees.
Termites are also an important food source to many creatures. Being high in fats and proteins, termites provide excellent nutrition to spiders, birds, bats and even frogs. Researchers have also been studying termites in their colonies to understand the origins of social life.
We have talked numerous times why termites are good for the Westchester County ecosystem. However, we cannot deny that fact that termites are one of the most dangerous pests, especially in NY. They can ruin the foundation of your home in a few years. Getting rid of termites can be very stressful. So the best thing you can do is find them before they do more damage.
Termites and the Ecosystem: Signs of Termite Infestation
Here are some common signs that you may have termite infestation:
Cracked paint: Termites feed off the interior of any structure, with no signs on the surface. But when they come closer to the surface, the paint on the wood may show some cracks or bubbles.
Hollow sound: If on tapping a solid wood product sounds hollow, it is a sure sign of infestation.
Swarmers: If you notice a swarm of what you would call flying ants, especially near light source, it indicated infestation by termites.
Mud tubes: If you see small mud tubes around the house, be sure to call pest control for termite removal.
The experts at Queens County Pest Control understand the role that termites play in the ecosystem. They are also aware of the damage that can be caused by them if they are not removed quickly. So, the treatment used by them is not only safe for the home owners and their pets but also environmentally friendly.
Methods to Prevent Termites
Soil treatment
This kind of treatment is used for Subterranean termites. In this treatment, the surrounding soil is treated to act as a barrier to further infestation. The soil around the foundation is dug and then treated with termiticides.
Wood treatment
This kind of treatment is used to kill any existing termites and prevent further spread. Wood treatments include surface sprays, injected sprays and foams and borate treated wood.
Bait systems
A pest control professional installs bait stations around the home and monitors them regularly.
Yes, termites are good for the ecosystem, but still call Queens County Pest Control immediately if you suspect you have termites. They offer customized pest control NYC treatment and prevention plans to keep your home safe.
