Identification of Subterranean Termites and Marine Borers in Ternate City and the Intensity of Damage Resulting from Their Attacks

Abstract

Indonesia is the largest archipelagic country, and Ternate is one of its cities with extensive marine areas undergoing rapid infrastructure development, making it prone to ecosystem changes and termite and marine borer attacks. This study aims to identify the species of subterranean termites and marine borers, analyze the intensity of wood damage caused by their attacks, and provide a scientific basis for mitigating wood deterioration in Ternate City. Specimen collection was conducted over three months through field observations and baiting with pine wood (Pinus merkusii) across 10 villages (Maliaro, Dufa-Dufa, Sulamadaha, Tobololo, Jati, Gambesi, Malikrubu, Soa, Kastela, and Foramadiahi) and multiple beaches, in accordance with ASTM D1756-08 and SNI 7207:2014 standards. A total of 125 termite baits were installed in the 10 villages, while marine borer baits were installed on two beaches: Jikomalamo Beach and Ake Rica Beach. The research identified five genera of subterranean termites and 18 species of marine borers. Although the overall frequency of subterranean termite attacks on baits in residential areas was low (2.7%), the presence of highly destructive species like Coptotermes sp. poses a severe localized threat to buildings. Conversely, marine borers exhibited a 100% attack frequency on submerged baits, resulting in a severe damage intensity averaging 60.8% within just three months. Consequently, Ternate City faces a significant dual threat from localized termite infestations and highly aggressive marine borers, necessitating urgent, targeted mitigation strategies to protect wooden infrastructure.

Keywords: baiting method, intensity of wood damage, marine borer, Pinus merkusii, termite