Where to Buy Live Termites
WouterTermites are a large group of ecologically important insects. They feed on cellulose in wood and other organic materials. They help maintain the health of the soil by returning nutrients to it. They also provide an energy-rich food source for predators.
Termites can be found in colonies, usually in the ground. Unlike flying ants, which have bent antennae, termites have straight ones.
They have three main forms or castes. These are: soldiers, workers, and reproductives. The soldier termites defend the colony, while the worker termites feed and care for the nest mates.
The termite colonies can be very large. They can include hundreds of thousands of individuals. The mature colonies pose a serious threat to structures.
They can be kept in a dark place, or they can be placed in a sealed box. The latter will keep them alive for several weeks. They are especially beneficial for behavioral studies.
Depending on the type of termites, they can be found in different locations. Subterranean termites can be found in the ground, on the surface of the soil, or under the foundation. They can also be found in dead wood.
The most common signs of a termite invasion are mud tubes. These muddy tubes are a common sight along the foundation of a home, as well as in the basement walls. They are about as wide as a pencil. If you notice one or more, it is a sign of an infestation.
