Introduction

 

 

1. The Threat of Tree Termites

 

 

In Southeast Asia area(Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Cambodia, Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines.), termites have evolved from traditional building pests to “invisible killers” that threaten urban tree ecosystems. According to a report by the Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) in 2023, the region’s annual forest losses due to termites amount to $430 million, including:

 

 

 

 

Urban trees: According to statistics from the Singapore National Parks Board, 580 street trees fell due to termite infestation in 2022, causing 43 traffic disruptions

 

 

Ancient trees: 12 old Angsana trees in the Penang Botanical Gardens in Malaysia, 7 of which are facing the risk of removal due to termite hollowing out of the trunk.

 

 

 

 

Over 60% of urban greenery trees (e.g., rain trees in Singapore and Malaysia) and 30% of commercial forests (e.g., rubber trees, oil palms) in Southeast Asia are under hidden attack by termites. Termites destroy the tree’s nutrient transport system by eating into the wood, causing structural fractures, reduced wind resistance, and even death.

 

 

2. The Role of Pest Control Companies

 

 

Tree termite control is compulsory course for every pest control company. Tree termite control requires the combination of ecological knowledge and termite control skills. Through scientific monitoring, prevention & control, and long-term management, pest control companies can increase the survival rate of trees by more than 80%, becoming a key force in urban tree protection. How to identify the type of termites that cause damage based on the exposed characteristics of termite damage is the key to effectively solving the problem of termite damage.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

How to Identify and Monitor Tree Termites

 

 

1. Common Tree-Termite Species and Their Behavior

 

 

The primary termite species damaging trees in Southeast Asia is Coptotermes formosanus (Formosan termites). Even when infesting tree trunks, they often leave visible signs like mud tubes, swarm holes, and droppings. Inspecting these signs helps determine if a tree is infested.

 

 

The main species of termite that infects trees in Southeast Asia is Coptotermes formosanus (Formosan termites). For this species of termite, even if it causes damage inside the tree trunk, in most cases it will leave exposed features such as mud tubes, flight holes, and droppings on the surface of the tree trunk. Therefore, by looking for these features on the surface of the tree, you can determine whether there is damage in the tree trunk caused by Coptotermes formosanus.

 

 

2. Professional Detection Tools

 

 

Infrared Cameras:

Detects temperature differences on tree surfaces to identify termite activity areas. Termites cause slight temperature changes when feeding on wood, which thermal cameras can detect.

 

 

 

In-ground Termite Bait Stations (Colony Elimination System):

Bait stations buried underground attract termites, helping monitor their activity. Brands like Pestman, Sentricon, and Exterra are highly effective. In application, underground bait stations are buried in places where there are signs of termite activity or easy invasion, and one is installed every 5 to 20 meters to enable timely monitoring and control of termites.

 

 

 

 

3. How to Identify Termite Signs

 

 

1) Droppings:

 

During active seasons, Coptotermes termites leave droppings on trees. These droppings are the most important feature to determine whether a tree is damaged by Coptotermes termites. When inspecting, remove the droppings with your hands or a screwdriver, and you will see a large number of termites active in the tree trunk.

 

 

 

 

The branches of many trees on the street are often cut off for various reasons, leaving behind cross-sections of varying sizes. These cross-sections will be the potential entry points for swarming termites and are also crucial inspection sites to determine whether the trees have been infested by Coptotermes formosanus. If a tree is infested by Coptotermes formosanus, we can usually observe termite droppings on the cut surfaces of the branches. In some cases, the amount of droppings is large, covering the entire cross-section; in others, it is sparse, with only small amounts found at the edges of the cut surfaces. In some cities, people seal the wounds left by branch cutting with cement. If the main trunk is infested by Coptotermes formosanus, only a small amount of excrement may be visible around the cement seal. However, even if the droppings is minimal, it can still be detected with careful observation.

 

 

2) Mud Tubes:

 

Mud tubes built by work termites can be found on the trunk surface of some trees infested by Coptotermes formosanus. These mud tubes can appear at the base of the trunk or in the middle or upper part of the trunk. Mud tubes that appear at the base of the trunk usually have one end connected to the soil and the other end extending into the trunk of the tree (in the early stage of mud tube construction, this end does not extend into the trunk). These mud tubes are several meters long and 20 to 30 centimeters short. Mud tubes that appear in the middle or upper part of the trunk have one end drilled out from the wound or branch section on the surface of the middle part of the trunk and the other end extends into the wound or branch section on the upper part of the trunk. These mud tubes are 4 to 5 meters long and only 50 to 80 centimeters short. On trees with such mud tubes, sometimes there is no sign of termite damage at the base of the trunk. When checking, you need to look up and observe carefully to find the existence of mud tubes.

 

 

 

3)  Hollow Sounds:

 

 

Tap the trunk gently with a tool and judge by the hollow sound. It is recommended to use a rubber hammer (to avoid damaging the bark) to knock the trunk at a grid-like point interval of 20 cm, focusing on the range 1.5 meters above the base and the bifurcation of the main branches:

 

Clear echo (similar to knocking solid wood): the wood structure is intact and there is no termite activity;

Dull and hollow sound (like hitting a drum): indicates that the infestation rate is greater than 15%, and further exploration is required;

Cracking noise (accompanied by bark tremors): the infestation rate may exceed 40%, and the tree is at risk of falling.

 

 

 

4) Discarded Wings:

 

 

 

 

Mature termite colonies will fly and reproduce every rainy season, and worker termites will chew 2-3mm wide flight holes on the tree trunk in advance. After the winged adults fly out of the nest, they will actively shed their wings, forming a typical identification mark:

 

 

Termite wing distribution pattern: concentrated within a radius of 0.5-2 meters around the tree base, often mixed with soil debris; wings can be seen below the flight holes distributed radially (density> 50 pieces/m²).

 

 

 

 

 

Strategies for Tree Termite Control

 

1. Chemical Control

 

 

1) Insecticide Spraying:

 

 

Choose insecticides suitable for trees and spray them directly in the termite activity area. Commonly used pesticides include chlorpyrifos, flubendiamide, etc. When spraying, the correct concentration and method of use of the pesticide should be used to ensure the effect and reduce the impact on the environment.

 

 

Traditional termite control methods may not completely solve the problem:

High recurrence rate: In cases where the underground main nest is not removed, the recurrence rate within 6 months is as high as 89%;

Environmental risks: Pollution of the surrounding environment, unhealthy for humans and animals;

Cost waste: The Manila Municipal Department in the Philippines once increased the annual maintenance cost of a single tree by US$400 due to incorrect prevention and control plans.

 

 

2) Termite Bait:

 

 

Termite bait is a highly effective solution for termite control, designed to eliminate entire colonies of termites. Unlike traditional liquid treatments, termite baits work by attracting termites to a slow-acting poison contained in the bait, which they then carry back to their colony. This method effectively targets the root of the problem, ultimately eliminating the queen and other colony members.

 

 

 

 

2. Environmental Management

 

Clean up dead wood and organic matter: Remove dead branches and rotten wood in the garden in time to reduce the food source of termites. Accumulated organic matter provides a place for termites to live and reproduce, and should be cleaned regularly.

 

Control water sources: Keep the soil moderately dry and avoid water accumulation. Too humid environment is conducive to the survival and reproduction of termites.

 

 

 

 

 

Key Products and Technologies

 

 

1. Pestman Termite Bait

 

 

 

Pestman Hexaflumuron Termite Bait can effectively control and eliminate termites, particularly in wooden structures, by attracting termites to feed on the bait. Pestman Termite Bait is formulated with 10% hexaflumuron, lignocellulose, pheromones and other attractants, which disrupts the termites’ molting process. Once consumed, the bait carries the slow-acting toxic substance that is shared with the entire termite colony, ultimately resulting in the destruction of the entire colony. This method relies on the termites’ natural behavior to spread the poison throughout their social structure, leading to colony-wide elimination. Once termites begin feeding on the bait, they stop feeding on the wood in the building.

 

Key Components:

 

 

Hexaflumuron:

 

 

What It Is: Hexaflumuron is a chemical compound primarily used as an insecticide, especially in the control of termites.

 

 

Why It’s Important: It works by inhibiting chitin synthesis. Chitin is essential for the termite exoskeleton, and termites need to synthesize it during growth and molting. Hexaflumuron interferes with this process, disrupting termite growth and development, and ultimately leading to their death.

 

 

 

 

Cellulose (Wood-Based Material):

 

 

What It Is: Cellulose is the primary food source for termites, derived from wood or plant materials.

 

 

Why It’s Important: Termites are naturally attracted to cellulose, making it the perfect base for bait. It ensures that termites will feed on the bait and carry it back to the colony.

 

 

Tracking Pheromones:

 

 

What It Is: Tracking pheromones mimic the natural trails termites use to navigate.

 

 

Why It’s Important: Tracking pheromones guide termites to the bait station, increasing the likelihood that the bait will be found and eaten.

 

 

Aggregation Pheromones:

 

 

What It Is: Aggregation pheromones signal to other termites that a food source has been found.

 

 

Why It’s Important: They encourage more termites to gather at the bait station, ensuring a higher intake of the bait and faster colony elimination.

 

 

Advantages:

 

 

– Powerful Killing Effect: Eliminates the queen and the entire colony.  

– Flexible Application: Can be used directly or with in-ground and above-ground bait stations.  

– Reduced Chemical Exposure: Safe for humans, pets, and the environment. Unlike traditional methods that involve spraying chemicals across a large area, termite bait is healthier for customers. 

– Effective Against All Termites: Works on Coptotermes, Reticulitermes, Odontotermes, Macrotermes, and more.

– Versatility for Different Structures: Suitable for various types of buildings, including residential homes, commercial properties, and structures with wooden components.

 

 

Value for pest control companies:  

 

 

– Long-Term Protection: Provide long-term protection by eliminating entire colonies, thereby preventing future infestations from the same colony.

– Customer Satisfaction: The effectiveness and safety of baiting systems can lead to higher customer satisfaction and trust.

– Cost Savings: Highly concentrated, requiring only 50g-150g to effectively eliminate a termite colony, making it a cost-efficient solution.  

– No Special Skills Required: Simple enough for junior staff to handle installation and observe the results of colony elimination.  

– Non-Invasive: Unlike traditional liquid treatments, termite bait are less invasive and do not require extensive drilling or excavation, preserving the structural integrity of the treated properties.

– Differentiation: Offering advanced baiting technology can differentiate a pest control company from competitors, showcasing their commitment to using the latest and most effective methods.

– Enhanced Reputation: Adopting Pestman termite bait shows pest control companies’ commitment to environmentally responsible practices, ensuring regulatory compliance and appealing to eco-conscious consumers.

 

 

 

 

2. Pestman In-ground Bait Station

 

 

Pestman In-ground Termite Bait Station, an innovative solution for termite control, offers effective and environmentally friendly protection against termite infestations. Designed for installation in the soil, it can monitor the termite invasion of houses, green spaces, woodlands and dams for a long time.

 

 

 

 

We recommend using Pestman In-ground Termite Bait Station with Pestman hexaflumuron termite bait to achieve better nest-killing effects. Termites active in the soil around landed property can be intercepted by Pestman In-ground Termite Bait Station and feed, then travel back to their nest and share the bait with other termites, after which the colony will be exterminated. Pestman in-ground termite bait station is a reliable choice for safeguarding homes and businesses.

 

 

Advantages:

 

 

-Proven Efficacy – We supply customers in over 30 countries worldwide, with more than 250 trials proving the effectiveness.
-We provide Pestman hexaflumuron termite bait, which works with stations for best colony-killing effects.
-Strong Attractant Power- All wood blocks were treated with Pestman’s exclusive patent attractants and feeding stimulants.
-Lure all termites – Such as: Coptotermes, Reticulitermes, Odontotermes, Macrotermes, etc.

 

 

3. Others: AI-driven intelligent termite monitoring system

 

The AI monitoring system collects environmental data in real time through a multimodal sensor network (such as vibration, temperature and humidity, and image acquisition), and uses deep learning algorithms to identify termite activity characteristics. For example:

 

 

Vibration analysis: The micro-vibration frequency (usually 200-800Hz) generated when termites eat wood can be captured by high-precision sensors, and the AI model determines whether it is termite activity through spectrum comparison.

 

 

Image recognition: The monitoring device equipped with a micro camera can capture the morphological characteristics of ant tunnels or wingless ants, and AI automatically classifies termite species.

 

 

Behavior prediction: The model trained based on historical data can predict the termite flight period and nest expansion trend, and deploy prevention and control measures in advance.

 

 

 

 

 

Case: Pestman Bait Saves Trees at Vietnam’s Emerald Bay Resort

 

 

Pestman Termite Bait and In-ground Bait Station Helps with Forest Termite Control in Nha Trang Resort, Vietnam

 

1. Case Background

 

The Emerald Bay Resort in Nha Trang, Vietnam is located on a scenic seaside. Recently, three old landscape trees in the resort have been severely damaged by Coptotermes termites. These landscape trees are not only an important part of the resort’s landscape, but also play a certain supporting and stabilizing role in the safety of surrounding building structures due to their huge root systems and tall tree crowns. If not promptly treated, termites may spread further and threaten the surrounding holiday cottages and public facilities.

 

 

 

 

2. Problem Discovery

 

During routine maintenance, the resort’s gardeners found that the trunks of these three landscape trees had some small mud tubes and the bark also had signs of being gnawed. After peeling off part of the bark, a large number of termite activity signs appeared, indicating that the trees had been severely damaged. The resort management realized the seriousness of the problem and immediately contacted a professional pest control company.

 

 

3. Solution

 

After on-site investigation and analysis by a professional pest control team, it was decided to adopt a prevention and control solution combining Pestman termite bait and Pestman In-ground bait station. The specific operations are as follows:

 

 

Pestman termite bait application: On each infested landscape tree, professionals carefully make a small hole in the appropriate mud tube position of the tree trunk, and then accurately installed a pack of Pestman termite bait. These baits contain special ingredients that can poison the entire nest of termites and eventually destroy the entire colony. During the installation process, the operators strictly followed the specifications to ensure that the bait is in full contact with the termite activity area so that the termites can successfully find and eat it.

 

 

Pestman in-ground bait station application: Multiple Pestman in-ground bait stations were installed at appropriate intervals around the infested trees. These bait stations were buried underground, with only the top cover is exposed. Wood chips designed specifically for long-term monitoring were placed in the bait station, so that once termites are active, they can be discovered in time. The staff also marked the area around the Pestman in-ground bait station to facilitate subsequent regular inspections and maintenance.

 

 

 

 

4. Treatment process

 

For the next 5 weeks, the professional team visited the resort every week for inspection. On the third day, they found that the installed Pestman termite bait attracted a large number of termites to come and feed. As time went on, the activity of termites gradually decreased. Through monitoring of in-ground bait station, there was no sign of termites spreading to the surrounding soil.

 

 

In the second week, the mud tubes on the landscape trees began to dry up gradually, which was a clear sign of weakened termite activity. In the third week, when the staff checked the inside of the tree trunks, they found that the number of termites had decreased significantly and the damage to the trees was effectively controlled.

 

 

5. Treatment results

 

After 5 weeks of continuous treatment, the termites on the landscape trees were successfully eliminated, and no new mud tubes appeared on the tree trunks. More importantly, the surrounding buildings were protected from termites due to timely prevention and control measures, ensuring the satisfaction of tourists in the resort.

 

 

 

 

6. Long-term monitoring

 

In order to prevent termites from invading again, the professional team decided to retain the Pestman in-ground bait stations for long-term monitoring. The installation spacing of the termite monitoring and control device is 10 meters longitudinally and 20 meters laterally, and it is mainly installed around the lawn and the base of trees. In this way, any potential termite activities can be discovered in time, and corresponding measures can be taken to ensure the ecological environment and building safety of the resort. The management of the Emerald Bay Resort is very satisfied with the control effect. They said that they will continue to cooperate with their professional pest control companies to provide tourists with a safe and comfortable holiday environment.

 

 

Through this successful control case, the effectiveness of Pestman termite bait and Pestman in-ground bait station in tree termite control has been fully verified, providing valuable experience for termite control in similar environments.

 

 

 

 

Why Choose Pestman?

 

 

As a pest control company, you need to provide clients with efficient, safe, and reliable termite control solutions. By choosing Pestman, you will gain access to industry-leading termite control products like Pestman Termite Bait and Pestman In-ground Bait Station, which uses advanced formulations to precisely attract and eliminate termites, ensuring long-term protection. Pestman also offers comprehensive technical support and training to help you enhance service quality and build client trust. We provide logistics support for the Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and other regions, with door-to-door delivery. Contact us today, and let’s cooperate to help more clients effectively solve their termite problems!  

 

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