Subterranean Termite (Alate/Swarmer)

Natural Habitat

Typically lives in underground colonies or within moist wooden structures; swarms are often found indoors or near windows after rain.

Diet & Feeding

Cellulose-based materials including wood, paper, and cardboard, often facilitated by symbiotic gut protozoa.

Behavior Patterns

Reproductive swarms emerge to find mates and establish new colonies. They are weak fliers and often shed their long, translucent wings shortly after landing.

Risks & Benefits

Poses a significant risk of structural damage to buildings and wooden furniture; ecologically beneficial as decomposers that recycle dead wood into soil nutrients.

Identified on: 3/1/2026