Understanding Microcerotermes turneri: Damage to Timber, Plasterboard, and Their Mound-Building Habits
Microcerotermes turneri is a termite species native to Australia, capable of causing moderate to extensive damage to decaying timber and plasterboard inside homes. They are also known for their distinctive nesting behaviour, with nests ranging from small mounds to large structures bigger than a beach ball. While not as aggressive as other termite species, their activity can still lead to significant structural issues if left unmanaged.
Where Do Microcerotermes turneri Live?
Microcerotermes turneri thrives in environments that provide decaying timber and favourable nesting conditions. Their common nesting and activity sites include:
- Mound nests: Their nests can vary from small mounds to large ones, sometimes exceeding the size of a beach ball.
- Tree trunks and branches: Nests are often attached to living or dead wood.
- Decaying timber in buildings: They target structural timber, particularly when untreated or damp.
- Plasterboard sheeting: Inside homes, they frequently attack plasterboard due to its cellulose content.
- Outdoor timber: Fences, posts, and other untreated wooden structures are common targets.
Their highly visible mound nests can help in early detection, but their damage to timber and plasterboard may progress unnoticed.
Why Are Microcerotermes turneri a Problem?
Microcerotermes turneri poses a range of risks to homes and properties. Key concerns include:
- Structural damage: They hollow out decaying timber in buildings, weakening structures over time.
- Plasterboard destruction: Their activity in plasterboard sheeting can lead to hidden damage in walls.
- Nesting near homes: Large mounds near properties can indicate termite activity threatening nearby structures.
- Outdoor timber damage: Garden posts, fences, and decking are particularly vulnerable to their feeding habits.
Their ability to attack multiple materials and establish large nests makes them a significant pest when unmanaged.
How Do They Behave?
Microcerotermes turneri is a social insect with a complex colony structure. Colonies consist of:
- Queen and King: The reproductive pair responsible for the colony’s growth.
- Workers: Forage for food and cause the most damage to timber and plasterboard.
- Soldiers: Defend the colony with their small but effective mandibles and behaviour.
Workers forage for cellulose-based materials, targeting both external decayed timber and internal materials like plasterboard. Their mound nests serve as the hub for colony activities and can grow significantly over time.
What Attracts Microcerotermes turneri?
Microcerotermes turneri is drawn to environments that provide the following:
- Decayed or untreated wood: Timber in poor condition is a primary food source.
- Plasterboard sheeting: The cellulose in plasterboard makes it an ideal target.
- Moisture: Damp or water-damaged areas provide suitable conditions for feeding and nesting.
- Proximity to trees or wood structures: They often establish nests near available food sources.
Signs of an Infestation
Early detection is essential to prevent extensive damage. Signs of Microcerotermes turneri activity include:
- Mound nests: Visible nests ranging from small mounds to large ones bigger than a beach ball, often near trees or buildings.
- Hollow wood: Decayed timber may sound hollow when tapped.
- Plasterboard damage: Bubbling, cracking, or hollow sections in plasterboard walls.
- Termite activity: Workers or soldiers may become visible if nests or damaged materials are disturbed.
Preventing and Treating Microcerotermes turneri Infestations
Effective prevention and treatment measures include:
- Inspect timber and plasterboard regularly: Check for signs of damage or termite activity.
- Remove wood debris: Clear decayed wood and other cellulose materials near your property.
- Protect outdoor timber: Use treated wood for fences, posts, and decking.
- Fix moisture issues: Repair leaks and improve drainage to minimise damp conditions.
- Engage professional pest control: A licensed technician can assess the problem and implement effective treatments.
Professional Termite Management with Jets Pest Control
Jets Pest Control offers expert termite management services for Microcerotermes turneri infestations. Our team provides thorough inspections and tailored treatment plans to address both structural damage and mound nests.
We service Ipswich and the Western Suburbs of Brisbane, offering reliable and effective solutions. Call 1300 566 569 or visit www.jetspestcontrol.com.au to book your termite inspection today.
Microcerotermes turneri’s ability to cause damage to timber and plasterboard, along with their distinctive mound nests, makes them a concern for homeowners. Early detection and professional management are essential to safeguarding your property. Trust Jets Pest Control to provide comprehensive termite solutions and protect your home.
