Drywood termites
Drywood termites are social insects, living in small organised colonies (a few thousand individuals) within sound, dry wood above ground level. Moisture is not as important to drywood termites as it is to subterranean termites. They require as little as 2.5 – 3% moisture and usually nest in dry undecayed woods such as softwoods and low-density hardwood timber structures, wood furniture, floorings, structural woodworks, dead trees, dry part of tree stumps, etc.
Subterranean termites
Subterranean termites are a group of highly destructive social insect pests that inhabit the urban environment. They nest beneath the soil and dependent on soil for moisture, which are differ from drywood and dampwood termites. In some instances, they may build a subsidiary nest that may not require contact with the ground, particularly where there is reliable moisture source. Hence, a subsidiary nest can be established anywhere, including top floors of high-rise buildings.