How Many Termites Are in the World?
WouterThe termite is one of the largest insect species in the world. They can create enormous nesting mounds up to three stories high. They are very destructive and can chew through walls and wooden furniture.
Termites have over 2,800 different species worldwide. Many of the species can be found in North America. However, some of them have been introduced to other parts of the world. These include the grass-harvesting termites of Africa, India, and the Middle East. They are very important in the savanna ecology of Northern Australia.
Termites are similar to ants in their social structure. They form colonies, mate, and care for their young. During this time, the male or king contributes to the labor. Depending on the species, the reproductives may begin as wingless nymphs or become fully winged adults.
The termite has four equally sized wings. The king and queen termites can swarm in large groups of thousands to find a mate. This process usually occurs during spring or autumn.
When the pair mates, they drop their wings and begin a colony. They then feed, groom, and clean each other. This process takes several years. Once the colony is established, the female produces eggs around the clock. After several years, the queen can lay more than a thousand eggs a day.
Termites are a group of cellulose-eating insects. They can thrive in warm, moist, lowlands. They are most abundant in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world.
