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#37: Termites

© Scott Bauer
 

Litinsects #37: Termites

 

TERMITES might get a bit of a bad rap for causing damage but they are super interesting insects! Did you know that...

  • Termites are actually considered to be a specialized group of cockroaches! They used to be classified in an entirely different order of insects but recent genetic studies found a closer relation to cockroaches
  • Termites form EUSOCIAL COLONIES (just like ants and bees). Termite colonies have not only a queen but also a fertile king along with sterile workers and soldiers. All castes are anatomically different with specializations to their tasks
  • They are found on all continents except Antarctica, though more species are found in AFRICA than anywhere else
  • Termites go through INCOMPLETE METAMORPHOSIS, with nymphal stages that resemble adults
  • Termite colonies live in huge and complex structures called mounds. COMPASS TERMITES build their mounds oriented north-south, which helps with THERMOREGULATION. With the large surfaces facing east and west, the mounds can heat up quickly in the morning sun but does not overheat midday, when the sun is directly above and at its hottest!
  • Termite queens can live longer than any other insects, reportedly up to 50 years!
  • As you probably know, many termites eat wood/cellulose. But what you may not have known is that they have a specialized SYMBIOSIS with gut microbes that help them break down the otherwise indigestible cellulose! Which brings me to the best fact of all...
  • Individuals are not born with these essential gut microbes, they have to be passed from another member of the colony. How do they acheive this, you ask? Through PROCTODEAL TROPHALLAXIS, an anus-to-mouth transfer of fluids that contain the microbes. Bon appetit!
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