Kalotermitidae

Kalotermitidae is a family of termites in the order Blattodea, commonly known as drywood termites. They inhabit dry wood and do not depend on soil moisture, a trait that distinguishes them from many subterranean termites. The group occurs in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide and has also established in temperate zones through human activity and timber movement.

Colonies develop entirely within the wood they consume. Kalotermitidae are eusocial and display a caste system that includes reproductive individuals (king and queen) and non-reproductive workers and soldiers. Winged reproductives, or alates, swarm to found new colonies, often during warm, dry periods.

Drywood termites feed on sound, dry wood, including structural timbers and furniture. Their presence is often indicated by small exit holes and the production of distinctive fecal pellets, or frass, which are small, six-sided pellets that are ejected from the wood.

Reproduction and colony growth occur through swarming and the establishment of new nests within dry wood. Colonies tend to be smaller than those of subterranean termites and do not rely on surface soil for moisture or mud tubes, which makes infestations harder to detect in some cases.

Economic and ecological significance: Kalotermitidae can cause localized damage to wooden structures, furniture, and decorative woodwork, particularly in buildings and ships. Detection can be challenging, and control methods include localized removal of infested wood, whole-structure fumigation, or heat treatment of affected areas. Prevention emphasizes moisture control, timely treatment of infested wood, and careful inspection of new timber and furnishings.

Classification: The family includes multiple genera, such as Cryptotermes, Kalotermes, and Incisitermes, among others.