What Do Subterranean Termites Eat?

Subterranean termites are insects that feed primarily on cellulose, a material found in wood.

• Wood: Subterranean termites consume wood, including the wood in structures like homes and fences, as it's rich in cellulose.
• Paper: They eat paper products because paper is made from wood pulp, which contains cellulose.
• Cardboard: Similar to paper, cardboard is also a source of cellulose.
• Dead plants: These termites can feed on any dead plant material, which also contains cellulose.
• Some types of fabric: Certain fabrics, especially those derived from plants like cotton, contain cellulose and can be consumed by these termites.

How do Subterranean Termites Eat?

Subterranean termites eat by breaking down cellulose from wood and other plant materials through a process called digestion.

• Termites have microorganisms (protozoa and bacteria) in their gut that help break down cellulose.
• They chew and ingest the wood, then the gut microorganisms convert the cellulose into simple sugars.
• The termites absorb these sugars for their energy and growth.
• They also share digested cellulose with the rest of the colony through a process called trophallaxis.

What do Subterranean Termites Drink?

Subterranean termites primarily consume cellulose from wood and other plant materials. They do not technically drink, but they obtain necessary moisture from the soil and the materials they consume.

• Soil Moisture: Subterranean termites absorb moisture from the soil they live in, which is essential for their survival.
• Moisture from Wood: They also extract moisture from the wood and other plant materials they consume, aiding their digestion process.

FAQs about Subterranean Termites

1. How often do Subterranean Termites eat?

Subterranean Termites eat constantly as they are always building and repairing their colonies.

2. How long can a Subterranean Termites live without eating?

A Subterranean Termite can live without eating for a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the environmental conditions.

3. What do Larvae Subterranean Termites eat?

Larvae Subterranean Termites eat the same cellulose-based food as adult termites which includes wood, plant material, and detritus.