stages of an infestation the surface of the object may bulge or blister. Small holes known as "kick-out holes" in diameter are sometimes made through which frass (faecal pellets) can be pushed out, accumulating in a conical, dusty pile below. The pellets are hexagonal in cross section and vary in colour, having one rounded and one tapered end, a shape characteristic of Cryptotermes brevis. Other signs of infestation are the swarming of alates or the presence of shed wings. Cryptotermes brevis is more destructive in habitations than other species in the genus Cryptotermes which require a moister environment. In the United States, this termite causes damage in excess of $100 million annually, and a great deal more than this worldwide. References Termites Insects described in 1853 Insects of South America Taxa named by Francis Walker (entomologist)