Asian Subterranean Termite (AST) is an intelligent insect pest which tunnels its way through the soil to its food source. This hardy pest lives approximately 6-18 feet underground making it almost impossible to detect unless their damage signs become apparent on buildings and other types of wooden structures or vegetation.

AST are found in parts of Lautoka and Labasa districts, however, areas around these two districts must take extreme precaution to ensure AST does not spread to other parts of Fiji. Be cautious when travelling to Lautoka and Labasa – when leaving, check your personal belongings and vehicles (tyres, storage trunks and hard to see places) to make absolutely sure you are not giving AST a free ride to your home!

AST are voracious feeders and consume wood, cardboard and paper and sometimes even fabric. They feed on all sorts of cellulose- containing materials and drill holes in such materials as rubber, plastic and styrofoam in their search for food. They also attack living trees by consuming the heartwood which weakens the trees and can bring them down in a storm.