Although ‘white ants’ and ‘termites’ are generally used interchangeably, there is a slight difference that people often fail to notice. It is important to understand the difference between these insects. Then only you will be able to choose the right treatment. The professionals have a lot of experience, knowledge, and skills, so they are aware of the difference and thus provide the right solution.
If you want to protect your property from the termite infestation, it is essential to know about the difference. In this blog, you will read about the difference between white ants and termites and how to deal with the problem.
Let’s have a look.
Are termites and white ants the same?
Termites are also known as white ants, and there is a reason behind it. Both of them refer to the same insect group. Termites are belongs to the order Isoptera, while the term white ants is a misnomer that is used to describe specific species of termites.
The two are quite similar to each other in terms of size, shape, and appearance, which leads to a basic confusion between them. However, there are some points that can help you to understand the difference between white ants and termites.
- Appearance: The white ants have pale, soft, or whitish bodies and have straight wings and antennae. The termites look quite similar to them but have whitish bodies.
- Diet: The white ants are fond of feeding on different types of foods such as sugars, proteins, and fats. On the other hand, the termites prefer to eat cellulose found in wood and plant matter.
- Social Structure: The white ants live in large colonies with dedicated types, including soldiers, workers, and reproductive. The termites are also found in colonies but display a broader range of social structures in comparison to white ants.
Normal ants vs. white ants – What is the difference?
Regular ants could be annoying, particularly if they invade your pantry or bite you, but they’re not a real threat to your home. The real trouble comes from white ants, also known as termites. Unlike regular ants, termites have pale, soft bodies, no eyes, and don’t go after your food scraps. Instead, they feed on wood and thrive in damp areas. If they go unnoticed, they can cause serious damage to the structure of your home. So, while a few ants in the kitchen might bother you a bit, termites are the ones you really need to watch out for.
Are White Ants and Termites dangerous to the home?
Termites might not be a direct threat to humans, but they can be a real nightmare for your home if ignored. Australia has over 200 species of termites, but only some of them cause damage. The ones you need to watch out for are subterranean termites, which thrive in damp, muddy areas. If there are signs of white ants or termites in or around your house, follow DIY methods or get in touch with the specialists for a thorough termite inspection. They are well aware of the white ants vs. termites concept and thus provide treatment accordingly.
How Do I Get Rid of White Ants or Termites?
When dealing with a termite or white ant infestation at home, it’s essential to employ effective methods for eradication. Here are some proven strategies to help you get rid of these destructive pests.
Here are some options to get rid of termites from home:
DIY Solutions for Termite Control
- Termiticide treatments work best for subterranean termites, eliminating them at the source.
- Essential oils can help control drywood termites naturally.
- A simple white vinegar and lemon mix can act as a DIY termite killer.
- A salt solution can dehydrate and effectively eliminate termites over time.
Natural Pest Control Methods
- Release beneficial nematodes (tiny worms) into the soil to target termite larvae.
- Set up termite bait stations to slowly eliminate colonies over time.
Taking early action can save you from costly repairs down the road. If the infestation is widespread, calling in the professionals is the safest and most effective solution. Protect your home before termites take over!
Contact Professionals to get rid of White Ant/ Termite
Getting rid of white ants and termites requires expertise, and that is why you need licenced professionals to get the job done. These pests are often hidden within walls, floors, or foundations, making them difficult to detect and destroy without proper training.
Licenced experts use specialised treatments that effectively target the entire colony, preventing further infestations. They also understand the safe use of chemicals, ensuring your home and family remain protected.
Additionally, professionals provide long-term solutions instead of temporary fixes. They assess your property for risks, apply the right treatment, and offer preventative measures to stop future damage.
DIY methods might seem cheaper, but they often fail to address the root of the problem, leading to costly repairs down the line. Therefore, if you want to get complete peace of mind, trust a licenced termite specialist to protect your home.
Take Away
Knowing the difference between white ants and termites is very important to protect your home from a potential infestation. It will help you to choose the right approach for both you and the professionals to get rid of such dangerous insects. That will save time, efforts and money.