Pronunciation: i-SOP-ter-a

Common name(s): termites

Mouthparts: chewing - modified in soldiers for nest defense

Wings: 2 pr. but present only in reproductives for a short nest - exiting flight (=swarming); short stubs are evident after wings lost.

Metamorphosis: paurometabolous

Body characteristics:

antennae beaded & straight
broad body shape
social in nest with workers & soldiers

Where found: primarily tropical; nest in ground or often in extensive constructed nest connected to soil with protective tunnels

Economic impact: termites have microorganisms that break down cellulose so they are extensively important in recycling; a few species (eastern subterranean and drywood termites) invade wood and plant derived structures of humans causing millions of dollars of damage annually.

Size of order: 1000 species (only 18 in N. America)

• Gordon's Entomological Homepage
• University of Arizona Tree of Life Page (Very Interesting Site!)