Infestations ofCryptotermes brevis(Walker) (Isoptera: Kalotermitidae) in Queensland, Australia 1. History, detection and identification

Abstract

Summary The history of the exotic West Indian drywood termite, Cryptotermes brevis (Walker), in Queensland, Australia is discussed. Survey and eradication work during the late 1960's was complicated by the presence of a common endemic drywood termite pest, Cryptotermes primus (Hill). Methods used to detect infestations of C. brevis, and features used to distinguish the two species, in particular drywood termite frass, are also discussed. The methods and results of surveys and public awareness campaigns, conducted to determine the distribution and abundance of C. brevis in Queensland, are presented. The results indicate that infestations in buildings are restricted to two areas of south-eastern Queensland and that the rate of discovering additional foci of infestation within these areas is decreasing. The programme of public awareness campaigns, surveys and treatment is considered successful in discovering and containing infestations. While total eradication has not yet been achieved, the major threat posed by C. brevis in Queensland has been substantially diminished.