How Termites Build Termite Mounds
WouterTermites live in underground nests. Their construction process has puzzled scientists for years. However, researchers have discovered a simple model that shows how mounds are built. This knowledge could help scientists predict the distribution of these massive, highly-organized structures.
Termite colonies are made up of many different castes. The colony superorganism is controlled by a queen. She runs the colony by directing the termites through chemical signals. A number of other termite species build ventilation shafts, chimneys, and canopies. Some also construct perfect arches. Other species construct spiral staircases.
The majority of termites live in the ground, but a few have evolved to live above it. Some, such as the bellicose termite, make huge mounds that can be miles high. These mounds disperse the heat produced by millions of termite bodies.
Termite mounds are constructed with soil and saliva from termites. The walls of these massive structures are strong and weatherproof. This helps protect them from erosion. They are also used for storage of wood.
During the building phase, termites produce biocement called “boluses” by mixing soil and water in a certain ratio. The boluses become hard when they dry. This cement helps the structure to stand up after the mound is constructed.
After a termite mound has been completed, it is constantly maintained by the workers. They deposit boluses into the surrounding areas of the mound. They also repair any damage that occurs to the structure.
Termite nests are some of the most sophisticated structures in the animal kingdom. Termites communicate through vibrations, physical contact, and chemical signals. These signals are used to communicate the presence of food and the direction of the colony.
