How Long Do Termites Live?
WouterThe life cycle of termites varies from species to species. However, the overall lifespan of a colony can be up to several years. The lifespan of a termite depends on the species of the insect, the location of the colony, and the environmental conditions.
Termites have a social structure that is based on their castes. Each termite performs a specific job in a colony. These castes can switch at any time. The castes include workers, soldiers, reproductives, and kings.
Termite colonies are very large and can contain several million members. They depend on moisture, warmth, and tunnels for survival. As a result, the colonies are exposed to predators. Hence, they must be protected.
Workers are responsible for foraging for food, repairing their nest, and caring for their young. They are also responsible for protecting the colony from predators. These workers usually live between one and two years.
During this time, they are fed regurgitated food. This helps them grow into nymphs, which eventually evolve into workers. A small portion of the workers can become soldier termites. These soldiers live up to two or three years.
During the first year, most subterranean species lay fewer than 100 eggs. During the second year, the colony begins to produce reproductive termites. Some of the secondary reproductives may continue egg-laying after the queen dies. The molting process, which is when the termites become fully mature, is dependent on the temperature and food availability.
Termite colonies are extremely resilient. They can be reestablished and grow rapidly after the death of the queen.
