Subterranean termites are social insects that live in colonies containing caste systems. Typical colonies have three distinct castes: reproductives, workers and soldiers, the queen may live for many years, and soldiers and workers may live one to two years, mature subterranean termite colony can consist of anywhere between 60,000 and two million workers. Subterranean termites use their scissor-like jaws to eat wood 24 hours a day. Like other termite species, subterranean termites also feed on products containing cellulose. subterranean termites can enter structures through cracks less than 1/16″ wide. A constant source of moisture is available, such as leaky pipes, colonies can also exist above the ground. “True aerial” colonies, which have no contact with the ground, are also known to exist.
