How Do Termites Survive?
WouterIf you’ve seen termites in your home, chances are you have a lot of questions about their biology and how they survive. The good news is that these little creatures are not dangerous to humans. They have a complex social structure and live in colonies.
Termites primarily eat dead plant material. They recycle decaying trees, a process that is of considerable ecological importance. They feed on cellulose, which is found in plants, wood, and soil.
They also rely on moisture. They can get moisture from damp wood, leaking pipes, and even soil. Some termites prefer dry wood above ground level. Others, on the other hand, like subterranean termites, can find moisture underground.
One of the most interesting facts about termites is their ability to survive in water. These insects can stay submerged in water for up to a day, and have been known to survive for hours.
The best way to keep termites from destroying your home is to make sure they don’t have access to water. You can do this by sealing leaky pipes, installing a dehumidifier, and removing any rotting wood from your yard.
Termites can also be caught in webs. In fact, spiders have been known to catch flying termites in their webs. They also inject a toxin into termite mounds.
Some termites, like the Formosan, can form a secondary nest above the ground. These colonies are harder to control because they are very aggressive. They are a threat to high-rise buildings in Honolulu and Florida.
