How Large Are Subterranean Termites?

Termites are small insects. They are more like ants than spiders and can live in underground colonies. They can be found in most areas of the United States, except for Alaska. They feed on wood and cellulose, which is the material found in living trees. They are also known to hollow out wooden buildings and furniture, causing structural damage to them. The amount of damage they cause can be quite substantial. In some cases, they can even collapse entire homes.

Termite colonies consist of three different castes: workers, soldiers, and reproductives. Each caste contributes to the colony in a variety of ways. The workers are the smallest members of the colony. They are roughly a quarter of an inch long and have six legs. The soldier is slightly larger and has a longer, stronger mandible.

The soldier is more powerful than the worker, and they can grow up to half an inch long. The reproductives are the largest members of the colony. They are winged, and can be between one and two inches in length.

The winged reproductives can be seen flying around the colony and may lay eggs. The females can produce tens of thousands of eggs in their lifetime. A mature colony has up to 60,000 to 2 million workers.

During the first year, the colony may only produce a few eggs. Once the queen is mature, she can lay 5,000 to 10,000 eggs a year. After a few years, the colony will grow to a size of at least 60,000 termites.

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