Questions and Answers
Which of the following statements about worker termites is true?
What is the primary function of soldier termites according to the content?
How often can a queen termite lay eggs during her lifetime?
What structural feature can colonies of termites have?
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Which caste in termite colonies is primarily responsible for reproduction?
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What role does the queen's hormone play in the termite colony?
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What is a key feature of soldier termites as described in the content?
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How do termites protect their colonies from attackers?
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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.
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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.