Termite

Isoptera

Living

Living individuals or members of this group exist today. This does not mean they are safe from extinction.

Termites are social insects with several specialised colony roles. This account follows the eastern subterranean termite (Reticulitermes flavipes), a wood-feeding North American species.

Reticulitermes flavipes, the representative described in this account.
Ryan Watson · CC BY

At a glance

Location: Eastern subterranean termites live in connected soil and wood habitats.
Habitat: Temperate forest, Towns and cities
Diet: Herbivore
Food: Wood provides food, and microorganisms in the gut assist digestion.

Classification

Common name: Termite
Browse group: Insects
Scientific name or taxon: Isoptera
Source classification: Insecta

Three things to know

Colonies contain different castes.
Gut microorganisms assist wood digestion.
Mud tubes protect travel routes.

Habitat and range

Eastern subterranean termites live in connected soil and wood habitats. Protected passageways and mud shelter tubes help workers travel while avoiding drying conditions.

Appearance and adaptations

Workers, soldiers and winged reproductive forms have different appearances. Soft-bodied workers tend the colony, while soldiers have enlarged jaws for defence.

Diet and behaviour

Wood provides food, and microorganisms in the gut assist digestion. Colonies divide work among different forms, linking feeding, defence and reproduction within the same social group.

Sources

Animal Diversity Web: Reticulitermes flavipes
A–Z Animals: Termite · Directory entry

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