Termites damage homes because it feeds on the wood structure and weakens it. And that might ultimately become damaged entirely. Termites are not new to the people of US, but a startling new revelation about termites has become a cause of worry for scientists too. Termites that had been closely associated with damages to homes are now enemies of the environment also. Although termites are fond of wood and live on it, it is usually attracted to homes but seldom does it attack trees. This understanding is now set to change, and termites are presenting itself as a significant threat to the environment as it has started attacking trees.
Termites are killing trees
A new study by the University of Florida has revealed that a particular breed of termites, the Asian subterranean termites are now killing trees as was evident from the death of some pine trees in South Florida. The native slash pine of the region is most affected by termites that have caused the death of many pine trees. Besides killing pine trees, the termites are causing much more widespread damage to other trees. Many oak trees attacked by the termites have resulted in hollow trunks, and the tree structure has become so fragile that it can easily uproot easily during hurricanes. The overall environmental damage is much more than what catches the eye.
Pay attention to your surrounding
The recent finding is an eye opener for homeowners as they have to change the traditional views about pest control that focused on homes only. When you engage with Atlas Termite & Pest Control Company, entrust them with the task of controlling pests in your home and in the surroundings within your boundary too, if you have some big trees in the compound. During the hurricane season and you must care for the trees in your surroundings just as you care for your home. Pest control services that served homeowners are now set to protect trees too.
The damage is considerable
You can better understand the damaging and devastating effects of Asian subterranean termites by looking at the results of a study published in Florida Entomologist. The study was carried out in two residential areas of Fort Lauderdale as well as in city parks and covered 400 slash pine trees. Half of the trees have a termite infestation, and in just a few years the city has lost 12 percent pine trees due to termite attack. that struck Florida last year has also uprooted some oak trees that had hollow trunks dues to termite attacks.
Termites are now posing a new threat because of the extensive damage that it is causing to the ecology. Similar damages to trees were detected earlier in Louisiana but the wrecker there was the Formosan termites.
It is time that homeowners start looking beyond their homes to put an end to threats from termites. Pest control companies also have to equip themselves adequately to protect the environment and play a more significant role in fighting termites.
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
