General Information about Termites (1)

go to main menu

The fascinating but complex biology of termites is in many regards still a mystery to the numerous scientists dedicated to termite research. As decomposers remineralising dead plant material, the animals play an outstanding role in the food chain. However, a large number of termite species are of economic importance as pests in agriculture, forestry, architecture and building. Effective control measures against termites are not really available due to a fragmentary understanding of termite biology.

This article is divided into the following headings:

• Termite Life Cycle and Caste System
• Termite Nest (Termitarium)
• Ecological and Economic Significance
• Factors encouraging Termite Attack and
• Control of Termites

Furthermore there are articles about these particular termite species:

• Nasutitermes novarumhebridarium
• Comptotermes elisae
• Microcerotermes biroi

go to host trees and their pests
go to main menu

© Michael F. Schneider, 1999