Termite

FACTS: Termites are fascinating wood-eating insects. These “silent destroyers” can eat your house undetected. While there are nearly 3,000 species of termites, only 10 percent are pests that feed upon buildings. Many termites are beneficial and convert plant cellulose into substances that can be recycled into the ecosystem. Termites need cellulose, which they get by eating wood, grass, leaves, and other plants. But termites cannot digest cellulose on their own. For this they depend on bacteria and other microbes that live in the termite hindgut. There are even some sophisticated termites that cultivate fungi gardens.

Termites have a complex social system similar to those of ants and bees, although termites have evolved independently. They are more closely related to cockroaches. Termites have created a highly organized division of labor and type of caste system with three main castes: workers, soldiers, and reproductives - a king and queen. This royal pair have hardened, pigmented bodies and large compound eyes. Workers and soldiers are sterile, wingless, and usually lack eyes. Workers are pale, soft-bodied, and have hardened mouthparts. They feed the colony, collect food, groom other members, and construct the nest.

The soldiers handle defense. Most are blind, so they locate enemies through tactile and chemical means. Soldiers have a large, armored head with powerful jaws. An attacking soldier lunges its scissor-like jaws to dismember or lacerate a foe. Some even shoot acid from their heads.

Regarding pest control, if there are signs of termites in your house then it is key to determine the species. Treatment methods will differ whether the pest is a subterranean or wood-dwelling species. Subterranean termites live in moist soil and reach your house through the foundation. Dry-wood termites nest in the wood on which they feed. If you discover an infestation, contact a licensed pest control professional.