How Many Termites Hatch at Once?
WouterTermite colonies have a life cycle that depends on the number of worker and reproductive termites in the colony. Workers are the ones that perform the maintenance of the colony, while the reproductives are the ones that lay eggs to help the colony grow.
Reproductive termites usually start to lay eggs when conditions are right. They release pheromones that attract males. These chemical scents are used for communication and to lure them to the hive. The females then dig out a chamber and begin mating. The newly hatched nymphs will molt before developing into workers.
During the nymph stage, the larvae are fed regurgitated food. They will develop into workers, alates and soldiers. The termite nymphs are translucent and have six legs. They will rely on the other termites to share food. Eventually, the nymphs will molt and grow wings. They are not a threat to your property.
When the alates are ready to leave the colony, they have a harder exoskeleton that enables them to survive in less humid air. The alates also have functioning wings and eyes. However, they do not bite or sting. They mainly try to find a new home. If they are unable to find the appropriate soil, they will die.
Generally, swarming occurs during the spring and summer. During warmer climates, subterranean termites remain active all year. They feed on cardboard, paper, wood, and cellulose. They are extremely effective egg layers, and can lay up to 2000 eggs a day.
