termites

Termites are eusocial insects that feed on cellulose and form complex colonies. They belong to the order Blattodea, having historically been treated as Isoptera. About 2,600 described species inhabit tropical to temperate regions, often with subterranean nests or living inside wood. Their diet is primarily dead plant matter, especially wood, and their ability to digest cellulose relies on symbiotic microbes in the hindgut.

Colonies exhibit a caste system of workers, soldiers, and reproductives. Workers forage, build, feed brood, and tend to the nest; soldiers defend with specialized heads and mandibles. Primary reproductives—king and queen—produce offspring, and many species maintain secondary reproductives. Winged alates swarm to found new colonies, then shed their wings upon mating.

Termites undergo incomplete metamorphosis: eggs hatch into nymphs that molt into different castes. The queen can lay large numbers of eggs, sustaining sizable colonies for many years. Some species reproduce asexually or generate replacement queens as needed.

Ecologically, termites are important decomposers, aiding nutrient cycling by breaking down cellulose and contributing to soil structure. In human contexts, however, several species are economically damaging pests that hollow out wood and undermine buildings.

Common signs of infestation include mud tubes on foundations, hollowed wood, and frass pellets. Control relies on prevention (reducing moisture and wood contact) and management strategies such as baits or liquid termiticides applied by professionals.