How Do Termites Reproduce?
WouterTermites reproduce in a few different ways. Asexual reproduction is one method. Another is parthenogenetic reproduction. A third method is the establishment of new colonies.
Asexual reproductives are found in a number of termite species. Neotenics are also commonly found in wood-feeding termites. However, they are rare in mound-building and humivorous termites.
The termite reproductive cycle can last for years. Primary reproductives are females. The eggs they lay create a new colony. This cycle will continue as long as the colony is healthy. The reproductive cycle usually begins in spring or summer.
During the first year, the queen of a colony may only be able to produce three eggs. A new queen can be produced in every five to twenty years, depending on the species. Several lower termite castes will switch to other breeding systems.
Besides laying eggs, a primary queen will also regulate the genetic makeup of the colony. This will help to limit inbreeding. The queen will also control the release of sperm from the spermatheca when the eggs are laid.
A termite can form a secondary colony, which can be established outside the original colony. Secondary colonies are made up of former baby termites. They are connected to the main colony by underground passages. These termites do not require soil moisture and are therefore able to survive without the parent colony.
During the process, the male and female termites will lose their wings. They will then fly out of the colony and find mates. Once they find a mate, they will build a new nest together.
