It is a type of insect that belongs to the group of social insects with well-developed colonies that are divided into special castes. Termite colonies are majorly faced with issues to do with food, water, light, temperature and ranks. Knowledge of these factors is important if one is going to address issues to do with termite control /prevention.
Factors Influencing Termite Growth and Development:Factors Influencing Termite Growth and Development:
1. Food Availability: Termites digest cellulose based items like timber and kraft papers, therefore need to be controlled. Availability of food is vital in the development of the colonies.
2. Moisture: It is a well-known fact that terms need water in order for them to live. Colony growth especially fungi and bacteria thrive mostly in high humidity and moisture.
3. Temperature: Termites are known to have a desirable optimum temperature which ranges from 68°F to 90°F, or 20°C to 32°C.
4. Social Hierarchy: They have a well-organized social structure and a termite colony is made up of a queen, workers, soldier, and alates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: This depends on the species of termites but on average it can expand relatively soon growing from groups of a few thousands to several millions in a year.
A: New termite colonies may be founded by one or more alates which when reach maturity can produce large numbers of offspring, with certain species increasing their numbers by 10000 in a year.
Q: These are some of the questions that may come into your mind; Growth and development of termites are influenced by the queen, how?
A: The queen, through which means ever, reproduces and maintains the base of the society.
Q: Termites have their mode of communication during their growth and development process.
A: Females use chemical which is also referred to as pheromones in passing messages to the other termites.
Q: Is there a way to stop or retard the growth of termites?
A: Yes, by eliminating the source of moisture, reducing the availability of food and applying Termites control measures.
Q: What are the measures that can be taken in order to avoid having termites?
A: In this case, moisture sources should be eliminated, the area should be scrutinized frequently and materials resistant to termites should be used.
Conclusion
The factors that affect termite development include food source, water, temperature, and colony castes. Knowledge on these factors will assist you in managing and eliminating the termite problem adequately. Thus, it is possible to prevent the attack of termites and save the house or any other property by knowing how to identify them. Just be sure to never let termites get a foothold in a home: it will only cost a lot of money for repairs.