Do termites eat wood?
Many species of termites eat and digest wood, but they do not have the ability to “eat” as humans understand it. Instead, microorganisms in their gut biochemically break down the cellulose (a component of wood) into substances that are absorbable by the termite’s body. The digestive system is very similar to cows’ stomachs in this way. This allows termites to extract all necessary proteins, carbs, fats, vitamins, and minerals from any wood source. Termites will only eat certain parts of a plant: roots, not leaves or stems; dead trees but never green; branches with nodes (knots).
Can I hear Termite chewing?
The noise you most often hear associated with termites is actually a sign that they could be there. If you can’t see any visible activity or find anything by sight, listen for chewing noises at night. These sounds are distinctive and can lead you to the nest or area where they might be gaining entry into your home.
Are termites nocturnal?
Just because termites are most active during the night doesn’t mean that all of them are nocturnal. For example, Macrotermes bellicosus colonies fly in the late afternoon but scurry underground before sunset, using their wings only as insulation while overwintering in their mounds. However, others like Coptotermes formosanus forage under darkness without having to use their wings. These species of termites are very aggressive when disturbed and may rush to attack intruders if accidentally bumped into.
Are termites blind?
Termites have tiny eyes which, although not connected to their brains – are used as light sensors on their heads and appear similar to hair follicles. The actual image is blurred but some details can be seen; the termite appears to have two eyes that sit near each other.
Can termites bite humans?
Yes, termites can bite humans. A few different species are known for this, like the desert subterranean termite (Heterotermes aureus), which feeds on roots and other organic matter underground, and Nasutitermes exitiosus – which builds tubes in wood structures – although they do not have teeth or jaws to tear into the skin. These termites will just use their mandibles to make small punctures and suck up the resulting blood meal. If you find yourself with a bite from one of these species it won’t be very painful but if there is an allergic reaction seek medical attention immediately.
Can termites eat concrete?
Yes, termites can eat concrete. Two main types of subterranean termite species are known for this: Reticulitermes and Coptotermes. Other species like Neotermes castaneus have also been reported to be able to cause damage to concrete structures. As with wood, these termites break down and digest the cement over time through a process involving their symbiotic gut organisms.
Do termites ever stop eating?
Termites will eat constantly except when they are in a state of diapause (similar to hibernation). They slow down or even stop reproductive processes in certain conditions such as cold weather, drought, food scarcity, low egg production inside the colony, or overcrowding – but never stop completely.
Will termites eat drywall?
Yes, termites will eat drywall. This is a popular way that homeowners discover an infestation because it’s usually the first material consumed and is easy to damage/remodel if there are no occupants living in the house. As with wood, they digest the drywall after breaking it down into smaller parts.
How do termites digest wood?
Termites digest wood (cellulose) by using a symbiotic group of gut organisms which produce enzymes to break down the cellulose. As long as termites are provided with enough water and food, they will continue to grow and process wood in their digestive tracts until they die.
How long do termites live?
Termite mounds can have a lifespan of 20 years or more; workers’ lifespan is shorter because they usually don’t survive past 2 years old. Reproductive termites mature around 3 to 6 years and remain fertile their entire lives, while royals only live for about two years as adults – although some species like Cryptotermes brevis may lay eggs up to three times year resulting in multiple clutches of offspring per year.