Highly Destructive Termite Making Rapid Spread Across Grand Bahama

Mr. Hue Ferguson the operations manager and Miss Olimpia Ferguson the staff entomologist of Budget Pest Control became the first persons in the Bahamas to co-author a scientific research paper on the Coptotermes formosanos aka the super termite. C. formosanos is an invasive termite species that was first identified on Grand Bahama in 2010 by Mr. Ferguson. This new study shows that, since its discovery, the super termite has been found in an increasing number of areas in Freeport. Research of this species on Grand Bahama was conducted by Budget Pest Control and Dr. Susan Jones, a noted professor of entomology at The Ohio State University, along with her team. Dr. Jones states, “This species is known to be one of the most destructive termite species in the world, and it has not been formally reported in any other country in the Caribbean.”

This study was published in the October 2017 edition of the Journal of Entomological Science. In addition to tracking the spread of these insects, extensive genetic analysis was conducted on the termites found on the island. According to Miss Ferguson, “The super termite is having a major effect on Grand Bahama. We have seen the type of large scale damage that these insects are capable of, and we are trying to spread awareness to the public on the threat this island is facing. These termites cost the USA billions of dollars in damage every year, and have the potential to cause millions of dollars in loss here on the island. We are doing all we can to avoid it from getting to that point.” Miss Ferguson further added “We believe the emphasis by homeowners should be on prevention. These termites swarm at least twice per year. During each swarming event, they release thousands of winged reproductive who then go on to establish new colonies elsewhere.”

Homeowners are cautioned to take the necessary steps to reduce their chance of getting an infestation. Some of the things they can do include, not storing wood directly against the outside of the home, removing all decaying tree stumps from the yard, ensuring rain water does not settle directly against the house, and eliminate moisture issues in the home as quickly as possible. Termites are also very attracted to mulch, so it is advised that homeowners not use mulch around the structure or to move mulch away from the foundation. Ensure roof vents are properly installed and seal all cracks and crevices on the exterior of home. Homeowners must also be careful not to bring already infested wood into the home through furniture or during renovations. Finally, it is important that an annual inspection of the home is done by a pest management professional and that homeowners have any exposed wood treated before an infestation occurs