Researchers found fossilized evidence of termites in Tanzania dating back to 25 million years ago. Those scientists believe those findings represent the oldest evidence of agriculture on the planet.

If you're wondering where that fungus came from, it's because termites keep fungus gardens. They chew up plant material and feed it to the fungi, wait for mushrooms to grow from the spores, and eat those. These insects are most known for eating wood, but they also consume soil, dead leaves, and occasionally paper. They're after the cellulose within those products. Subterranean Termite colonies eat around half an ounce of wood per day, adding up to almost 13 pounds per year.

 

Termite queens can live up to 25 years. The average house fly, in contrast, lives for up to 25 days. The other termites in the colony don't have quite the fortitude as the queen, though, and live for around two years typically.

Termite colonies are considered mature once they hit about 6 or 7 years old. That gives them enough time to develop fully. Subterranean Termite colonies have been recorded to include over 60,000 workers. When they get that large, they'll branch out and form several nesting sites, which they connect through a network of tunnels. Swarmers leave the nest, and new kings and queens establish different colonies elsewhere.

The Panamanian Termite clamps its mandible closed at 157 miles per hour. The species uses its powerful jaws to quickly take out invaders to their territory. Since the bugs are so small, the bite itself doesn't do much harm; that's why they've adapted to be able to inflict many bites very quickly.

Researchers say they use acoustic vibrations to send signals to workers that are still immature, to help them develop into active breeders. They also use that form of language to check whether another species of termite has been present or has gone after the same piece of wood that the colony has in its sights. https://www.newscientist.com/article/dn7041-good-vibrations-rule-the-termites-world

As they construct their nests, they incorporate microscopic pores throughout the structure in an interconnected way. Those pores help to ventilate the nest, allowing hot and cold air to circulate throughout. They also regulate humidity and allow more oxygen in. 

Many cultures worldwide eat termites. In Africa, Asia, and South America, people have been eating them for centuries, capitalizing on the protein and fat content of the insects. They're a great source of vitamins as well, giving a good dose of iron, calcium, and amino acids. The ways they're prepared vary depending on the chef, but they're typically cooked in a pan or fried. The bugs have a fair amount of oil in them, so they take on a somewhat nutty flavor and aroma when they're cooked. Some people also eat them raw. Others smoke them, steam them, or dry them in the sun before munching on the snack. 

 

They Help Plants Grow

Although they are generally considered pests and cost Americans billions each year, they also play a vital role in the ecosystem. Their interaction with soil affects nutrient cycling and the flow of carbon through the ground. Researchers have found that termite activity helps fertilize plants, making them grow faster and stronger.

 

Termite control and removal are not tasks you should attempt to take on without assistance from a professional. Licensed technicians will search for damage and then weigh options for repairing the areas the insects have harmed. That could mean the removal of tree stumps, portions of walls, and more. Stratex Pest Control is the most trusted local pest service in Southwest Michigan because we do thorough work that you can trust. Rather than wait until your house is at risk from termite damage, pick up the phone, call Stratex Pest Control for a free estimate. We will then organize a prevention and elimination plan for you. Our team's certified professionals will treat your property and do regular inspections to make sure termites stay away.