Researchers discover new hybrid termite species in Florida

Two invasive termite species in Florida, the Asian termite and the Formosan termite, have bred to create a new hybrid species, puzzling experts who were not expecting this development.

Nan-Yao Su, a distinguished entomology professor at the University of Florida, said, "They actually mate, they produce hybrid."

The Asian and Formosan termites are not supposed to be in Florida, and their simultaneous activity between April and May has led to the creation of this new type of termite.

"We are going to have three type of population, the Formosan, the Asian subterranean, and the hybrid. That is the future," Su said.

Termites cause over $6 billion in property damage annually, and a map shows where these species are being reported in the area, with red dots indicating the Asian subterranean and yellow dots showing the Formosan.

Catherine and Gary Eck from Fort Myers recently learned about these invasive species during a pest inspection. Catherine Eck noted that the inspection team mentioned they were checking for termites, while Gary Eck said, "Every time we see a little sign of termites, we call them."

The biggest problem with this new hybrid is that even experts are still learning about it. Su said, "What they're going to do to the damage to the people's house? We don't know. We have no idea right now."

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