Arboreal termites are so named because of their habit of building their nests on trees. These termite mounds are usually large and have a very dark color, close to black. Nests can also be supported on posts, walls and wood in general. The main arboreal termite species is Nasutitermes corniger, also cited by other authors as Nasutitermes araujoi or Nasutitermes globiceps. This species builds tunnels and galleries that go from the nest to the ground. The same colony of arboreal termites can have several kings and queens. Thus, the elimination of a queen will not imply the extermination of the colony. Soldiers have a well-developed structure on their heads, the shape of which resembles a large pointed nose. For this reason, these individuals are popularly called Nasuto soldiers. Their jaws, on the other hand, are poorly developed, being almost imperceptible to the naked eye.
Damage caused by arboreal termites

Arboreal termites attack wood in general. They are common in urban areas, and can attack the woodwork of houses, in order to damage the buildings. They are usually found in roof woods that may be close to a tree containing a nest. They also attack the very tree that supports the termite mound.

Identification of a focus of arboreal termites

Nests are easily identified by their peculiar characteristics. They are large, black, have a more or less spherical shape and are located in the treetops.

Methods to prevent an infestation

Preventive methods for this type of termites do not differ much from strategies to avoid other types of termites. It is recommended to use previously treated wood and to remove wood and debris containing cellulose in places close to buildings.

Methods to fight an infestation

It is advisable to remove the nest from the infested tree. Reinfestation, however, can be frequent, since arboreal termites have several queens.