Community identification
Winged termite (likely a shed alate)
Reticulitermes spp. (likely; species cannot be confirmed from the image)
- Order & Family
- Blattodea, family Rhinotermitidae
- Size
- Workers and soldiers are about 3–6 mm; winged reproductives are typically 6–10 mm excluding wings.
Natural Habitat
Moist soil, decaying wood, stumps, and structural timber; commonly found near foundations and crawl spaces.
Diet & Feeding
Feeds mainly on cellulose in wood, leaf litter, and paper, aided by gut microbes that digest cellulose.
Behavior Patterns
Winged reproductives swarm seasonally, shed their wings, and establish new colonies. Colonies contain reproductives, workers, and soldiers; workers remain concealed while foraging.
Risks & Benefits
Can cause costly structural wood damage when colonies infest buildings. Ecologically, termites decompose woody material and recycle nutrients.