Drywood termite species in Queensland
Drywood termites damage timber structures in coastal areas and adjacent tablelands in Queensland.
Each of the 4 introduced species has a restricted distribution within this zone, but the native species Cryptotermes primus is more widespread.
Cryptotermes brevis (West Indian drywood termite) is the most destructive species of drywood termite and so is of economic importance in Queensland.
Australia's other native species are of little economic importance.
Common name | Scientific name | Native or invasive | Distribution |
|---|---|---|---|
West Indian drywood termite | Cryptotermes brevis | Invasive | Maryborough, Brisbane, Bundaberg, Townsville and Rockhampton, plus other parts of coastal Queensland |
Indo-Malaysian drywood termite | Cryptotermes cynocephalus | Invasive | Around Cairns and in other parts of northern Australia |
Domestic drywood termite | Cryptotermes domesticus | Invasive | Around Cairns and further north |
| Cryptotermes dudleyi | Invasive | Thursday Island (native to Indonesia and Java but exotic to Australia) | |
Native drywood termite | Cryptotermes primus | Invasive | Widespread |
Also consider...
- Find out more about West Indian drywood termites.
- Read about other termite species.
- Last reviewed: 24 Mar 2022
- Last updated: 24 Mar 2022