How Old Do Termites Live?
WouterTermite life span depends on the type of species. For instance, drywood termites live between 10 and 12 years while subterranean termites may live for 30 years. However, if these insects are protected, they can survive for decades.
Termites are social insects and they live in colonies. Each colony consists of a queen, king, and workers. The colonies are typically found in the soil. The colonies grow by developing tunnels and foraging for food. The colony swarms when the colony runs out of food or space. If left untreated, the colonies can cause extensive damage to homes.
The queen is the largest and most immobile member of the colony. She produces millions of eggs over her lifetime. When she dies, a new queen will take over. The new queen will continue to produce eggs to keep the colony alive.
When a new colony is formed, the king and queen take care of the first batch of eggs. As the colony grows, more and more eggs will be laid. Eventually, the queen will lay up to 1000 eggs per day.
The life span of a worker termite ranges between one and two years. They feed and care for their young siblings, build a nest, and protect their eggs from predators. They use pheromones to guide other workers. They live to serve the queen.
Termite nymphs molt several times in their life. Some will molt into soldiers. They will also molt into reproductive alates. Reproductive alates will have eyes and pigmentation, and will use this to find a new home. They will mate when a new colony is formed.
