Community identification
Termite alate
Isoptera
- Order & Family
- Order Blattodea, Infraorder Isoptera
- Size
- 6 to 14 millimeters in length, including wings.
Natural Habitat
Subterranean colonies, rotting wood, and damp soil near wooden structures.
Diet & Feeding
Cellulose from wood, paper, and plant matter.
Behavior Patterns
Swarming alates emerge in large numbers during warm, humid weather to find mates and establish new colonies. They shed their wings shortly after landing.
Risks & Benefits
They pose severe structural risks by damaging wooden buildings. Ecologically, they decompose dead wood and enrich soil.