Termites are social insects living in organized colonies. However, only a specialized group within the colony develops wings and flies. This aerial ability serves a primary purpose in the termite life cycle: reproduction and the establishment of new colonies.
The Termite Castes That Fly
Within a termite colony, there are distinct castes, each with a specialized role. The vast majority of termites, including workers and soldiers, are wingless and remain within the colony, performing tasks such as foraging, caring for the young, and defending the nest. However, a specific caste known as “alates” or “swarmers” are the only ones that develop wings and engage in flight.
Alates are the reproductive members of the colony, destined to become future kings and queens. They have darker bodies, ranging from light brown to black, which helps them retain moisture during their brief flights outside the colony. A distinguishing feature of flying termites is their four wings, which are equal in size and length and often appear translucent or pale.
The Biological Purpose of Flight
The flight of alates is a fundamental part of the termite life cycle, known as swarming. This event is a dispersal mechanism that allows mature colonies to expand their territory and establish new ones. During a swarm, winged termites emerge from their established colony, often in large numbers, seeking mates from other colonies.
Environmental cues such as warm temperatures and high humidity, often following rainfall, trigger these swarming events. After finding a mate, the male and female alates land and shed their wings. They then burrow into a suitable location to become the king and queen of a new colony.
Identifying Flying Termites and Their Implications
Distinguishing flying termites from flying ants is important, as they are frequently confused. Flying termites possess straight antennae, a broad waist where their body segments join, and two pairs of wings that are equal in length. In contrast, flying ants have elbowed antennae, a distinctly pinched waist, and two pairs of wings where the front pair is noticeably larger than the hind pair.
The presence of flying termites, particularly indoors, is a warning sign. It indicates that a mature termite colony is likely nearby or within the structure. While the alates themselves do not cause structural damage, their appearance suggests an active infestation by the wood-eating worker termites. Finding discarded wings, often near windows or light sources, can also signal that a swarm has occurred and a new colony may be forming.