Microcosmos: The Termite Family

Questions and Answers

Which of the following statements about worker termites is true?

All worker termites in a colony can develop into queens.

Worker termites are primarily responsible for reproduction.

Worker termites do not leave the nest to seek food.

Worker termites care for the queen and larvae. (correct)

What is the primary function of soldier termites according to the content?

To build the nest.

To convert fallen trees into energy.

To defend the colony from attackers. (correct)

To reproduce and lay eggs.

How often can a queen termite lay eggs during her lifetime?

Up to 1 million eggs.

Up to 10 million eggs. (correct)

Only during the nuptial flight.

Once every 10 seconds.

What structural feature can colonies of termites have?

Nests capable of reaching up to 8 meters in height. Signup and view all the answers

Which caste in termite colonies is primarily responsible for reproduction?

The queen. Signup and view all the answers

What role does the queen's hormone play in the termite colony?

It prevents worker termites from developing into queens. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key feature of soldier termites as described in the content?

They possess white jaws. Signup and view all the answers

How do termites protect their colonies from attackers?

By producing a sticky acidic substance. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Termites Overview

Termite family comprises 75% of all termite species.
Notably destructive to wooden structures, such as buildings and ships.
Represent one of the most modern evolutionary groups of insects.

Ecological Role

Crucial for converting fallen trees into energy.
Enrich soil with nutrients, enhancing ecosystem health.

Colony Structure

Colonies can contain up to one million individuals.
Some nests constructed from mud can reach heights of 8 meters.
Utilize tubes to produce a sticky acidic substance for colony protection.

Castes and Roles

Soldier termites can be either male or female, depending on species.
Worker termites handle nest maintenance, food foraging, and care for the queen and larvae.
Macrotermes workers are sterile, either small females or large males.
Only fertile members are the king and queen.

Reproduction and Lifespan

Colony establishment begins with a nuptial flight.
Upon mating, the queen loses her wings and starts building a nest with the king.
Queen secretes a hormone to inhibit worker development into queens.
Queen's abdomen can grow up to 9 centimeters, allowing prolific egg-laying.
Capable of laying one egg every 3 seconds, totaling up to 10 million eggs in a 20-year lifetime.

Defense and Adaptation

Soldier termites primarily defend the colony with distinctive white jaws.
In certain species, soldiers may be substituted by different insects.

Description

Explore the fascinating world of termites in this quiz. Learn about their unique evolutionary traits, the significant role they play in ecosystems, and their infamous reputation for destruction. Discover how these small insects can have a big impact on their environment and human structures.