Wood destroying insects include some of the most economically important pests of structures.  Of these, termites are perhaps the most important for Texas homeowners.  The eastern subterrranean termite is the most commonly encountered species, but drywood and Formosan termites are also a problem for some homes (especially along the Gulf coast).  A variety of wood-infesting beetles can also damage structures and articles of furniture.  If you own a home, you owe it to yourself to be familiar with these pests.

Termites

• What is a termite? (ENT-6002)
• Subterranean termites – general information (E-368)
  General information about termite biology and control.
• Frequently asked questions about subterranean termite control (ENT-2002)
  Still confused about termite control?  Chances are that your questions have been asked before.  Check out this information before you call a termite control professional.
• How to select a termite control company (E-369)
  Termite control can be a big investment in maintaining your home.  Be an informed consumer.
• Drywood termites (E-366)
  If you live along the Gulf coast, or in more southerly parts of Texas, drywood termites are a common pest. The biology and treatment methods for drywood termites are distinctively different from subterranean termites.
• Formosan termites (E-367)
  Still rare in most parts of Texas, the Formosan termite is a bad character.

Other wood destroyers

• Lyctid powderpost beetles (ENT-2008)
  A wood boring beetle that makes tiny round holes in hardwoods, especially floors and trim.
• Structure-infesting wood-boring beetles (E-394)
  A summary of identification, biology and control of all the major wood boring beetle pests of Texas homes.