Heterotermes is a genus of termites in the family Rhinotermitidae. Hetertermes ferox is a species often encountered in and around Ipswich attacking posts, poles, paling fences, and even home flooring. Weathered floorings, such as timber decking and fences, are a favoured feeding site for these termites.
They are widely distributed across Australia and can be a pest species causing some property damage. Fortunately, they cause minor damage due to the smaller colony size, but they can still pack a punch. In the picture above, Heterotermes soldiers have slender bodies and parallel-sided heads with prominent mandibles.
The soldiers are not as brave as other species of termites and move quite slowly. They do not build mounds but like to nest close to other termite species.
