Statewide survey documenting established colonies of the Formosan subterranean termite (Coptotermes formosanus) within Louisiana parishes

The Formosan subterranean termite (FST), Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae) was initially identified in Lake Charles, Louisiana in 1966.  The following year, the invasive pest species was documented in the city of New Orleans.  The introduction into the continental United States is thought to have occurred through infested wooden crates shipped from Southeast China following the termination of World War II.  Since its introduction, the Formosan subterranean termite has become the most economically important termite species in New Orleans, and one of the top five economically important termite species in the United States.  Besides displacing indigenous termite species through their aggressive nature and large colony size, FST colonies often cause extensive damage to wooden structures and frequently infest and damage living trees.  Since the initial observation within the continental United States, multiple surveys documenting established colonies throughout the Southeastern United States have taken place.  In Louisiana, three statewide surveys have been conducted.  Presently, specimens collected with the aide of pest management professionals, various state agencies, and employees of the City of New Orleans Mosquito and Termite Control Board have documented established FST colonies in 41 out of 64 parishes within the state of Louisiana.  Due to the economic impact incurred by the FST, and the ability of rapid expansion of the known introduced range via alate dispersal and human assisted dispersion, it is essential to document the current distribution and prevent further expansion of this invasive species.