How do subterranean termites differ from other wood-boring insects?

Subterranean termites are distinctive among wood-boring insects primarily due to their behavior in handling wood. They do not expel wood particles outside their galleries, which is a characteristic that sets them apart. Instead, they consume the wood they infest, creating a network of tunnels or galleries within it. This behavior often leads to hidden damage since the evidence of their activity—such as wood particles or frass—remains inside the wood structure rather than being discarded outside.

In contrast, some other wood-boring insects may push out wood shavings or frass as they create their tunnels, making their presence more detectable. Additionally, behaviors like building nests in trees or living entirely above ground are characteristics associated with other insects, further distinguishing subterranean termites from these species. The unique habit of consuming and utilizing the wood for shelter without leaving visible waste is crucial in understanding termite behavior and highlights the challenges they pose for homeowners.