How Long Do King Termites Live?

Termites are the most successful group of terrestrial insects. They thrive in warm, moist, lowland habitats. Termite colonies can grow to a million members within five years. In the meantime, the king and queen work together to maintain the balance of the colony.

The lifespan of a king termite is generally one to four years, depending on the species. The lifespan of a queen is around twenty-five years.

The lifespan of workers is a little shorter, typically a year or two. They are responsible for foraging and building the nest. The nymphs and larvae develop into soldiers and reproductives. They regurgitate food that helps the termites grow.

During the first two weeks of their lives, termite larvae do not have color or legs. They are tube-shaped and have soft white bodies. They eventually become flies. They are fed by mature worker termites.

Termite colonies often have several castes, including swarmers, workers, and alates. Reproductive termites have a shorter life span than workers. They are also smaller. They have rudimentary eyes and no wings. They only reproduce in colonies that need them.

During the first three to four years of their lives, subterranean termite colonies produce only a small number of eggs. When they reach their third to fourth year, they begin producing winged reproductives. These termites leave the colony to establish new colonies. They usually fly short distances.

Termite colonies also produce secondary reproductives, which are similar to workers but do not have wings. These termites are not as good fliers. They have rudimentary eyes, and they are only found in colonies that need them.