How Come Termites Eat Wood?

Termites eat wood because it contains cellulose, a plant polymer that is essential for their survival. These insects live in homes and cause millions of dollars in damage to properties every year.

Researchers are trying to figure out how to disrupt the digestive systems of these termites so they will no longer be able to derive nutrition from wood. The gut of a termite is filled with hundreds of different species of microbes. They break down wood, air, and other organic materials into simple sugars. The resulting acetate is used as energy by the termite.

Besides cellulose, termites eat other wood-based products. They can consume fabric, cardboard, and paper. They can even chew through some soft metals. They can also damage furniture and paneling. The result of these efforts is a lot of damage that is invisible to the eye.

Termites rely on a symbiotic relationship with protozoa, microscopic bacteria and other organisms that help them digest wood. These protists are found in large numbers within the intestines of three termite families.

Each microbe produces an enzyme that helps the termite break down cellulose. These enzymes turn cellulose into simple sugars. These sugars are then digested by the termite’s digestive system.

In order for the termite to survive, it must have a digestive system that can break down cellulose. The protozoa in the termite’s gut break down the cellulose fibers in wood.

The bacteria in the termite’s stomach break down cellulose into simple sugars. These sugars, in turn, provide the termite with nutrients.

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