What method do subterranean termites use to infest structures?

Subterranean termites primarily use mud tubes to infest structures, which is a distinctive behavioral characteristic of this type of termite. These mud tubes serve as protective tunnels that the termites create from a mixture of soil, wood, and saliva. The termites construct these tubes to travel between their underground colonies and their food sources, which often includes wood found in structural timbers, foundations, or other cellulose materials within buildings.

By moving through these mud tubes, they are safeguarded from predators and environmental conditions that could be harmful. The tubes also help maintain the moisture levels that are crucial for their survival. Therefore, when observing signs of subterranean termite activity, finding mud tubes is a critical indication of their presence and mode of infestation.

Other methods, such as direct contact or wood scraping, are not the primary means of how these termites initially invade structures, and airborne spores are more associated with fungi rather than termite behavior. This understanding can help in effective identification and management of termite infestations in pest control practices.