How Big Can Termites Get?
WouterTermites are small insects that are classified as an infraorder of Isoptera. These insects can range in size from about 1/8 inch to one inch. They have three body segments.
The first is the worker, which is the smallest member of the colony. It is a wingless insect with six legs. It is used to feed the queen and to build the nest. As the worker ages, it grows in size.
The second member of the colony is the termite king. This king is the second most important member of the colony after the queen. He controls the functions of the colony by releasing chemicals. When the king dies, other individuals replace him.
The size of an individual termite depends on its species. For example, the Western subterranean termite is about 3/8 inches long. The Eastern subterranean termite is slightly longer at about 1/4 of an inch. The Nevada damp wood termite is about 3/4 of an inch.
The termite king and queen are the most important members of the colony. Their life spans are about 25-30 years. A mated pair usually begins laying eggs as soon as they get together. These nymphs are then fed by the workers.
Reproductive termites begin to emerge in swarms after rain. They have brownish-gray wings. They are longer than the workers. They cluster in chambers in the underground.
Reproductives can be found in colonies that have been established for years. Their colonies can contain hundreds of thousands of individuals.
