Why Are Termites Good for the Ecosystem?
Are termites good for the ecosystem? Are you aware of the fact that termites have inhabited the earth since the time of the dinosaurs? In fact, the total weight of all the termites in the world is more than the weight of all the humans in this world. That’s probably the reason why there has been a serious war going on between humans and these pesky pests for years.
Termites cause damage worth $ 5 billion every year in the United States of America. With its sandy soil and high moisture levels Suffolk County homes have just the environment for these pests to thrive. Termites removal has thus become an essential for all homeowners in Suffolk.
However, these pesky pests are not the complete devils we make them out to be. In fact, they are absolute angels when it comes to environmental protection and conservation. They are actually essential for the well-being of Suffolk County ecosystem and that of the rest of the world as well.
Ultimate Soil Engineers
The mounds built by termites are essential for the maintenance of a variety of eco-systems like deserts, semi-deserts, tropical and subtropical rainforests and also your neighborhood park. Termites are also known as the ultimate soil engineers.
Rain can soak deep into the holes that they dig through the ground rather than running off and evaporating. This way these tiny insects help prevent dryland turning into deserts. Termite feces also play an important role in lending structure and coherence to the soil. This helps prevent erosion and makes termites role in the environment quite important.
Forest Favorites
These tiny alien looking insects have an astounding recycling capacity as well. Termites can metabolize cellulose and this helps them to decompose dead plant material and recycle the nutrients back to the environment. The bacteria in the gut of termites help extract nitrogen from the air and provide this excellent fertilizer to the soil. The protozoa in their bodies help termites eat wood, dung, lichen and even dirt. Without them, forests would be clogged up with dead trees.
Protein Packs
Termites also play an important role in the food chain. Being high in proteins and fats they are the ideal food for echidnas, ants, spiders, lizards, and birds.
The ecological benefits of these bugs are however overshadowed by the destruction caused by them. So, it is essential to learn when what causes termite infestation, as we already know why are termites good for the ecosystem in Suffolk County.
- Moisture: Termites that build their colonies in the soil are attracted to moisture.
- Even if the soil in your home has been treated, any wood that comes in contact with your home’s exterior can cause the termites to infiltrate.
- Cracks in your foundation’s concrete also cause an infestation.
Termites Prevention Suffolk County
There are a number of steps you can take to prevent termites infestation:
* Eliminate or reduce moisture around your home. Make sure water does not pool your foundation or on your roof. Termites need moisture to thrive.
* Routinely inspect the foundation of your home for signs of mud tubes.
* Store firewood at least 20 feet away from your house.
* Remove dead trees from your house.
* Apply a fresh coat of paint in order to seal the smallest crevices in wood.
* Consider scheduling a professional inspection annually for your home.
However, if you do notice the infestation, do not try to control it by do-it-yourself measures. Contact Suffolk County Pest Control immediately. We specialize in eliminating termite though safe and eco-friendly techniques.
So, if you notice termites in your home or if you are considering buying a new home, call Suffolk County Pest Control for an inspection. Their friendly service staff and pest control professionals are eager to help you.