Hm, I'd first look above it with a flashlight to see if there's any mud dripping down thru a crack in the wall. There might be a slow drip only when it rains.

Looks somewhat like the soil tubes made by termites.

P.S. Termites ARE very 'popular' in NY, by the way, and they are very likely to start out in the basement.

I smashed it up good....
Wow it is a termite colony!
It is only located in the corner though. Any suggestments on how to declare war?

Thanks!

Yes. Open your phone book and call a professional exterminator. There is NO way that you can treat for termites. You should have a complete inspection and get on an annual contract.

Read the small print of bids and contracts. Those cheapy companies are often loaded with hidden costs and large increases in upcoming years.

Termites use those dirt tubes to gain access to the wooden parts of the home. Get busy with those yellow pages!