ABSTRACT
Termites are the most important pests of wooden structures in the agricultural and urban environment. These small, social insects live in large colonies and utilize wood or other cellulose-containing material as a food source. The large colony size and extensive foraging area of subterranean termites makes them serious economic pests. The popular view of termites is usually based on accounts of the unusual or spectacular aspects of exotic species that are not normally associated with humans or structures. Termites have successfully adapted to the varied conditions that characterize urban and agricultural environments around the world. Modem buildings with concrete slab construction and central heating have contributed to the successful extension of the range of subterranean termites beyond the 10°C annual mean isotherm north and south of the Equator. The pest status of termites in the urban environment is based on the economic impact of the damage they cause to buildings.
