What Termites Are Black
WouterTermites are insects that feed on cellulose-based material such as wood. Their bodies are about the size of an ant. They live underground. They construct tubes from the soil to the wood, which helps them get to food sources.
Most species of termites are black, but some are dark brown. Some have wings that are translucent or colorless, while others have wings with hair. These variations can make it difficult to distinguish them from carpenter ants. Several of these species are considered to be pests of buildings.
Formosan termites are one of the most destructive types of termites. They are native to the Pacific islands, but are also found in Canada and Hawaii. They can cause major damage in a short amount of time. They lay about 20 to 30 eggs in their chambers. Their wing color is usually pale, yellow or brown. They usually find their mates in crevices of wood.
They have three castes: the workers, the reproductives and the soldiers. Workers are the largest in the colony. They have a soft, pale-brown body, segmented antennae and no eyes. They work for the colony, bringing back food to feed the other castes.
Reproductives are smaller than workers and have two pairs of nearly identical wings. They lay more eggs than other termite castes. The reproductives are very similar in appearance to carpenter ants.
Termite swarms are a sign of an infestation. When a colony swarms, it forms a castle in the ground. They may release thousands of swarmers. The castle is typically built in the spring. A termite swarm can cause serious damage to a home.
