Why Do Termites Have Wings?
WouterSwarms of flying termites are an indication of an infestation. These insects are not meant to fly, but they can be very destructive to homes. A single swarm can land up to 50,000 termites at once.
Swarms of flying termites are usually produced by the queen and king of the colony. The termites that make up the swarm fly towards a light source. This swarming flight is often called a ‘nuptial’ flight.
This type of swarming flight is typically short-lived. Only 10 percent of swarms will actually be able to establish new colonies.
The termite with the most wings, however, is the reproductive termite. These winged termites are called alates and they are the only species that can reproduce in flight.
The reproductive termite is sexually mature and can mate with another termite to form a new colony. Some reproductive termites will even get wings so that they can nest in a different location. These termites can look similar to some ants.
While there are many types of termites, only a few have wings. These include the flying termites and the termite soldiers.
The reproductive termite has three parts: the body, the head, and the wings. The antennae are also separate from the rest of the body. The antennae are normally straight, but they have a bend in them.
There are three main types of termites: subterranean, winged, and reproductive. Some types of termites have just two wings, while other types have three or four.
