Flying termites, also known as “swarmers” or “alates,” are reproductive individuals of certain termite species. These flying termites play a crucial role in starting new colonies and expanding the termite population. Here are some facts about flying termites:
- Reproductive role: Flying termites are the only members of a termite colony capable of reproduction. Their primary purpose is to leave their original colony in swarms to find a mate from a different colony and establish a new colony of their own.
- Swarming behavior: Flying termites participate in annual swarming events, where they take flight in large numbers. These swarms often happen during specific times of the year, usually in spring or early summer, and are triggered by environmental factors like temperature, humidity, and light.
- Short-lived flyers: Once the flying termites have emerged from their original colony, they have a relatively short window of time to find a suitable mate and establish a new colony. After this, their wings are shed, and they become the king or queen of the new colony.
- Nuptial flight: The swarming event during which flying termites take to the air is known as the “nuptial flight.” This flight is critical for the future of the species as it facilitates the dispersion of termites to create new colonies.
- Alate morphology: Flying termites have distinct physical characteristics that set them apart from worker termites. They have two pairs of wings of equal length, straight antennae, and a thicker, darker body than the worker termites.
- Vulnerability: The nuptial flight exposes flying termites to numerous risks, as they are relatively defenseless during this period. Predators such as birds, bats, and other insects often take advantage of the swarm to feed on the vulnerable termites.
- Mating and colony foundation: Once the flying termites find a mate from a different colony, they shed their wings and pair up. The mated termites then seek a suitable nesting site to start a new colony together as king and queen.
- Economic significance: While flying termites play a crucial role in the ecosystem, their presence can be problematic for human-made structures. Termites, in general, are infamous for their ability to cause extensive damage to buildings and wooden structures, as they feed on cellulose present in wood.
- Identification: It can be challenging to distinguish flying termites from flying ants as they both have wings during the swarming phase. However, some key differences, such as body shape, antennae, and wing length, can help in distinguishing between the two.
- Termite diversity: Flying termites belong to various termite species, each with its own unique characteristics and behavior. Some common species of flying termites include subterranean termites, drywood termites, and dampwood termites.
Remember that while flying termites themselves do not cause direct damage to structures, they are a sign of a potential termite infestation nearby. If you notice swarms of flying termites around your property, it’s essential to contact a pest control professional to assess the situation and prevent any potential termite damage to your home or building.