What is the meaning of the letter "Z" on a termite report?

The letter "Z" on a termite report specifically indicates the presence of dampwood termites. Dampwood termites are typically found in areas with high moisture, as they require a moist environment to thrive. They primarily infest decaying or damaged wood that has a high moisture content, unlike other types of termites that may prefer different conditions.

In contrast, subterranean termites generally require contact with soil and are more related to structures that are in contact with the ground. Wood-decaying fungus, while related to wood deterioration, does not pertain to insect activity but rather to fungal decay processes. Wood-boring beetles are different pests altogether and are noted by distinct identification markers on reports. Understanding these distinctions helps in accurately identifying infestations and determining appropriate treatment methods.