Area of Distribution: The Arid-Land subterranean termite is commonly found
from the Pacific Coast to Indiana, and southwards from Montana to lower
California, Texas, and Mississippi.
It is by far the most common and destructive termite in Arizona.
Identification of Swarmers and Soldiers: In locations below 4,000 feet
the Arid-land termite swarms between January and March. Above 4,000 feet,
they usually swarm in June and July.
The swarmers are about 1/3” long with wings, and 1/5” long
without wings. Their wings are almost whitish, with brown veins in the
fore area. They are dark brown to black in color. The soldiers are 1/4"
long, with jaws that are nearly straight. They resemble the jaws of the
desert termite but are slightly thicker.
Biology and Habits: The Arid-land subterranean termite has been found
living in sand dunes, as well as at altitudes above 7,000 feet in the
Rocky Mountain states.
It is also found in moist river low lands and along streams and canyons,
but essentially it is a desert or prairie species. Arid-land subterranean
termites naturally occur in deserts where they attack creosote and greasewood
bushes as well as buildings and other timber structures.
