Reticulitermes flavipes

Reticulitermes flavipes, commonly known as the eastern subterranean termite, is a species of termite found mainly in the eastern United States. It lives underground or in wood, feeding on cellulose, the main component of wood and paper. These termites are social insects, working together in large colonies with specialized castes: workers, soldiers, and a queen. They can cause significant structural damage by consuming wood in buildings, furniture, and trees. Recognizing their presence early is important for pest control. They play a natural role in ecosystems by helping break down dead plant material but are considered pests when they invade human structures.