How Much Methane Do Termites Produce?
WouterThe methane produced by termites is not always emitted directly into the atmosphere. It is broken down by bacteria in the termite mounds before it is released. The production of methane depends on many factors including the temperature, humidity, light levels, and the presence of CO2.
Termite methane emissions have been known to be around 1 to 3 percent of global methane emissions. Methane is the most potent greenhouse gas of all, and its production is increasing.
Termites prefer to live in high, stable temperatures, as well as a low level of sunlight. They also prefer to live in areas with an immobile atmosphere and high relative humidity. This makes them a significant source of atmospheric methane.
Several species of termites live above the ground, but most of them are subterranean. They can be found in forest soils and agricultural fields. They produce a mixture of methane and carbon dioxide.
The methane produced by termites varies between species. One study showed that fox ranged from 20 to 80% for individual mounds. Another study of six species found that the amount of methane emitted by each species was not consistent.
It is thought that half of the methane emitted by termites is broken down by bacteria in the termite’s mound. This process is referred to as methanogenesis. The process occurs in a symbiotic metabolic cascade of lignocellulose breakdown in termite hindguts.
Methane emissions from termites range from 1 to 3 percent of global methane, but the total amount of methane produced by termites is likely less than 15 Tg per year.
