Non-destructive Detection of an Invasive Drywood Termite, Cryptotermes brevis (Blattodea: Kalotermitidae), in Timber

Reliable drywood termite detection in structures is challenging but critical for effective management. A microwave-based non-destructive method was evaluated detecting activity. This study factors affecting the ability of this device to reliably detect Cryptotermes brevis timber. The displayed a high probability successfully C. naturally infested boards. system detected termites 97% time when used at highest sensitivity level, while producing few false positives. number did not affect ability, and detectable signals were produced even single present. Detection success decreased with both increasing wood density testing perpendicular grain abrupt transition timber species. maximum depth 45 mm southern pine (Pinus spp.), declined increased limit declining only 20 denser Tasmanian oak (Eucalyptus spp). could samples densities between 392 511 kg/m3 38 thick radiata samples. results support microwaves