What Phylum Do Termites Belong To?
WouterTermites are insects that are part of the Phylum Arthropoda. They are closely related to cockroaches. They also belong to the Infraorder Isoptera.
Termites are one of the most successful insect groups. They are capable of digesting cellulose found in leaves and wood. They can also process humified organic matter in tropical soils. They also possess a vast array of microbial symbionts. They can live for up to four years.
Unlike other insects, termites do not have a stigma. Their antennae are straight and beadlike. Their legs are asymmetric. Some species have a arolium between their claws. Their reproductive organs are similar to those of cockroaches.
Termites are a highly eusocial insect, living in colonies with their mates. They can form large mounds that house millions of individuals. They are able to defend themselves with their strong jaws. They are also infested by mites. They have specialized gut organisms that break down cellulose in wood.
During their life cycle, termites are classified into castes. The castes include workers, soldiers, and reproductives. The workers are responsible for maintenance of the colony. They provide the king and queen with partially digested food. The soldiers perform defense duties and protect the colony. They also spray intruders with liquids.
There are over 2,000 species of termites in the world. Most of them are native to the tropical and subtropical regions of the Earth. Several species are also found in Africa, Europe, and Asia. However, the diversity of termite species is very low in Europe and North America.
