|
|
Termite Behavior and Social Organization
Scientifically termites are classified under the order Isoptera. Termites have a highly evolved social organization and hierarchical structure. They are also communal, and can be found in colonies of various sizes.
While individually termites aren't the smartest, they instinctively know how to work together. This swarm intelligence allows each individual termite to work with the other termites to accomplish tasks. Even with no centralized control structure their decentralized and self-organizing instincts make sure each termite performs their appropriate tasks for the colonies survival.
The social organization of termites divides the colony into four major groups: their young called nymphs, the reproductive individuals, the workers, and the soldiers.
A female termite that has flown and mated and is now laying eggs is called a queen. Likewise, a male that has achieved the first two and is remaining in close proximity to the queen is the colony's king. Contrary to the previous belief that a colony is lead by only one queen, multiple reproductive pairs in a termites' nest are not an uncommon sight.
When it reaches maturity, a queen termite develops this immense capacity to lay eggs - more than a thousand per day, in fact. It achieves this by developing an extra pair of ovaries with each shedding of its outer skeleton. This, in turn, greatly increases its ability to reproduce. In the course of her life, the queen's body lengthens to a size that restricts her from being able to move about freely so it is up to the worker termites to feed both her and her young.
Worker termites are the most common caste of termites in a colony. They are responsible for maintaining the hive, gathering food and caring for the other members of the colony. Since the queen and king are occupied with egg laying duties, and since the soldier termites are incapable of feeding themselves, worker termites are responsible for feeding everyone in the colony. The work tirelessly day and night to make sure the colony is provided for.
Soldier termites have evolved to make them great defenders against outside predators. Soldiers have enlarged heads and heavy jaws that make them great protectors. If there is ever a break that exposes the hive soldier termites will line the opening, protecting against outside invaders, while worker termites seal the opening. They will also use their large heads to block tunnels, sacrificing themselves to protect the colony.
Termites get their nutrients by feeding on organic matter. More specifically, they feed on cellulose that is found in abundance in wood.
Termites have been branded as a nuisance to humans but they, along with every other creature in the ecosystem, play a part in circle of life.
|
 |
Please Rate: |
|
Rating: |
 Processing ... |
(Average: Not rated) |
| Views: | 38 | |
|
| More Articles from Pets | | |
| Top Articles in Pets | | |
|
