Which type of termites is known to cause the most damage?

Subterranean termites are known to cause the most damage among the various types of termites. This is primarily due to their nesting habits and the extensive tunneling they create underground. Subterranean termites live in colonies below the soil and can have large populations, which allows them to consume wood and other cellulose materials rapidly. Their ability to access structures through underground tunnels makes them particularly destructive, as they can invade wooden components of buildings undetected for long periods. Additionally, because they require moisture to survive, they are often found in settings where wood and moisture are present, such as near foundations, leading to significant structural damage over time.

In contrast, while drywood termites can also cause considerable damage, they do so above ground and usually only within the wood they inhabit, limiting their reach compared to subterranean termites. Formosan termites, known for their aggressive behavior, can cause extensive damage as well, but their distribution is more localized and not as widespread as subterranean termites. Ground termites, while they do exist, are not typically recognized as a significant threat in comparison to subterranean termite species.