AN OVERVIEW OF TERMITE CONTROL METHODS IN AUSTRALIA AND THEIR LINK TO ASPECTS OF TERMITE BIOLOGY AND ECOLOGY

Subterranean termites (‘termites’) are a major pest of human structures throughout tropical and sub-tropical regions, causing billions of dollars in damage to timber-in-service worldwide. Most control systems, in the past, relied almost solely on the use of extensively applied organochlorines as the major termiticides. These chemicals were banned for use as termiticides through out most of Australia in 1995. The banning of organochlorines stimulated a fresh look and wholly biorational approach to termite control. The focus of research is now directed to finding more environmentally friendly termite control methods. In order to develop new possibilities for more acceptable termite control, it is necessary to have a clear understanding of their biology, including reproduction, division of labour, foraging, intra-specific and inter-specific interactions, hindgut microbial community and environmental influences. Improved understanding may lead to more efficient and more effective control strategies. The purpose of this review is to review the current research on Australian termites highlighting ongoing research related to development of alternative control methods and to identify areas in need of further study and funding