How Long Do Subterranean Termites Live?
WouterSubterranean termites live in colonies underground. These colonies may number in the millions, depending on the type of termite species. The colony is self-supporting. It will feed on wood, grain, and other cellulose-containing objects. A single colony can survive for decades. The lifespan of each type of termite depends on the conditions of its environment.
Termite colonies are comprised of a main queen and secondary reproductives. The queen is responsible for producing eggs for the colony. This means that the older the queen, the more eggs she can lay. A mature colony will typically contain about 5,000 to 10,000 eggs.
The life of a worker termite is generally two years. In addition, the workers protect the colony, providing food and making sure the colony’s eggs are free from soil contaminants. A small percentage of workers will develop into soldiers. These soldiers defend the colony.
The life cycle of reproductive termites begins with the nymphal stage. The nymphal stage is characterized by large jaws and a wingless form. During the nymphal stage, the termite is fed regurgitated food. The regurgitated food helps the termite to grow into a worker. The nymph is then mated with a female.
The mated reproductives are called alates. Once the alates have mated, they prepare for a new colony. They lay about 2,000 eggs per day. The main caste of termites, the primary reproductives, has pale gray or brown wings.
In contrast, the secondary reproductives are cream or white in color. The main caste of termites, workers, are wingless.
