In the ongoing battle against termites, two major stories are unfolding—one offers a breakthrough in safe, targeted control, while the other raises alarms about a destructive new hybrid menace spreading through Florida.

A Breakthrough in Termite Control: Safe, Targeted, and Effective

Drywood termites have long been the silent saboteurs of homes, thriving unseen within walls, beams, and furniture. But scientists at UC Riverside may have finally found a smarter, safer way to stop them—without toxic fumigation or major disruptions to daily life.

Researchers have discovered that bistrifluron, a chemical that inhibits the formation of termite exoskeletons, can kill up to 95% of a colony with minimal environmental impact. Unlike traditional treatments, which are often harmful to humans and pets, bistrifluron targets insects specifically, making it a promising alternative for homeowners.

“Once termites ingest it, they can’t complete their next molt,” explains entomologist Dong-Hwan Choe. “They literally die trying to shed their skin.” The chemical works slowly—allowing it to spread through the colony—ultimately leading to widespread collapse within two months.

Even better, the research team previously found that adding pinene, a tree-scented chemical that lures termites, increases the kill rate significantly. Combined, this smart bait-and-kill approach offers a more precise and less toxic solution to a common and costly problem.

The New Threat: Hybrid Termites Emerging in Florida

While scientists make strides in termite control, another development is raising serious concerns. In South Florida, two invasive species—Formosan subterranean termites and Asian subterranean termites—have begun interbreeding. The result? A hybrid super termite with the potential to spread faster and cause more damage than either of its parents.

According to a study from the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS), the hybrid was first genetically confirmed in 2021 and is now establishing full-blown colonies. These termites are not only viable and fertile, but they also appear to swarm just like their parents—raising the possibility of rapid expansion beyond Florida.

“This may be a Florida story now, but it likely won’t stay just in Florida,” warns lead researcher Thomas Chouvenc. Given Fort Lauderdale’s role as a boating hub, these termites could easily hitch a ride to new environments.

What This Means for Homeowners

Florida—and much of the southern U.S.—sits at the front lines of the termite fight. As climate change expands the habitable range of both native and invasive species, innovations like bistrifluron-based treatments are becoming essential. They not only reduce the need for disruptive fumigation but may also provide ongoing protection if the chemical remains active in treated wood.

At the same time, the emergence of hybrid termites underscores the need for vigilant monitoring and proactive pest management. Once established, these colonies are incredibly difficult to detect—and even harder to eradicate.

The good news? Science is giving us better tools to fight termites—tools that are safer, more effective, and less harmful to our homes and health. The bad news? Termites are evolving too, and staying one step ahead means acting early and staying informed.