Termites are eusocial cockroaches that primarily consume decaying plant material, such as wood and leaf litter. They are often called “white ants” due to their soft-bodied worker caste, but they are not ants. About 2,997 species are described, primarily belonging to the family Termitidae. Termites evolved from cockroaches and are classified within the order Blattodea.
Most termite colonies consist of a king and queen, and they undergo incomplete metamorphosis, developing through egg, nymph, and adult stages. Termites function as superorganisms, often remaining hidden within their nests. They thrive in various global environments, with the highest diversity in the tropics, particularly in Africa.
Ecologically, termites are crucial decomposers and contribute significantly to nutrient cycling, soil characteristics, and biodiversity through their mound construction. While some cultures consume termites and use them in traditional medicine, the majority of species are harmless. However, certain species are known structural pests, particularly in North America and tropical regions, with their range expected to expand due to climate change and urbanization.
