What Are Termites?
The Eastern subterranean termite is a common species of termite that is found across the United States, living in underground nests. Termites feed on items made of cellulose, such as decaying plants, tree roots, tree stumps, fallen trees, and tree limbs. Outside, away from homes and other buildings, termites are beneficial, helping to speed up the process of breaking down decaying plant matter. However, inside, termites are highly destructive pests that can cause extensive structural damage.
What is the Difference in Workers & Soldier Termites?
Termites have a complex social structure, and a colony is made up of three different groups, or castes:
Workers
Workers make up the bulk of the colony. They have soft, cream-colored bodies, and are responsible for gathering food for the colony.
Soldiers
Soldiers defend the colony from danger using their large, powerful jaws.
Reproductives (Kings and Queens)
Reproductives are the only members of the colony that are winged and fertile. They swarm from a mature colony to mate and start new termite colonies.
