Overview of the global distribution and control of the Formosan subterranean termite.

In the United States, the number of areas infested with the Formosan subterranean termite has increased in recent years, but its worldwide distribution remains primarily in areas between ca. 35° north and south of the equator. Soil termiticide applications that have been in widespread use by the pest control industry for the half-century are intended for exclusion of soilborne termites from the structures, but their inability to kill vast colonies in soil may have allowed the establishment and increase of Coptotermesformosanus populations in many introduced areas. With the development of baits that can be used to eliminate termite colonies, there is hope that C. formosanus populations may be substantially reduced if area-wide programs are implemented.