"At Least 10 Years Ago Influx" Changwon Invasive White Termites, Government Epidemiological Investigation Announcement

The results of a joint government epidemiological investigation into the invasive white termites found in a house in Jinhae-gu, Changwon City have been released.

According to the Korea Forest Service on the 26th, the epidemiological investigation was conducted from the 11th to the 25th with the participation of the Ministry of Environment (National Institute of Ecology and Nakdong River Basin Environmental Office), Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency, Cultural Heritage Administration (National Research Institute of Cultural Heritage), Korea Forest Service (National Institute of Forest Science), Changwon City Hall, Korea Special Dog Detection Center, and Korea Pest Control Association.

The investigation results showed that no additional individuals were found in the household where the Changwon invasive white termites were first discovered (September 5), but the same invasive white termites were confirmed to inhabit two nearby locations.

The additional discovery sites were external wooden window frames of a house located 50 meters from the initial discovery site (54 individuals including reproductive and worker termites) and wooden structures under the roof of a house 90 meters from the initial site (54 individuals including reproductive and worker termites). All the affected wood was dismantled and incinerated.

An invasive white termite was discovered in a house in Jinhae-gu, Changwon, prompting a joint government epidemiological investigation. Photo by Korea Forest Service

Experts participating in the epidemiological investigation estimated that considering the species characteristics and colony size of the invasive white termites, it is likely that they were introduced into the country at least 10 years ago.

Detailed species analysis revealed that the discovered invasive white termites are (tentatively named) Seobuma-reunnamu white termites (Incisitermes minor). This termite is known to exhibit swarming behavior mainly in autumn in its native habitat (the United States).

Based on this, experts concluded that aside from the two additional discovery points (within a 100-meter radius of the initial colony), the invasive white termites have not spread to other locations, but they emphasized that regular monitoring and control measures must continue.

Accordingly, the government plans to conduct pest control around the initial discovery site to prevent further spread through swarming and distribute related information about the invasive white termites to local residents so that they can report any suspected individuals.

Additionally, a thorough survey of nearby cultural heritage sites will be conducted to assess any damage.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.