Department of Entomology

Isoptera (Termites)

Family Fact Sheet

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Isoptera - Brigham Young/VPI & SU PCD0330036

I. Background Information

A. Origin of name

1. iso, equal; ptera, wings

B. Classification

1. 1900 species worldwide
2. 5 families - 4 in United States
a) Mastotermitidae (Australia)

b) Kalotermitidae - drywood

c) Hodotermitidae - damp wood

d) Rhinotermitidae (subterranean termites)

e) Termitidae (desert termite)

C. Common names

1. "White ants"

2. Termites

D. Type of metamorphosis - simple, but can have castes

1. Reproductives

2. Soldiers

3. Workers

E. Phylogenetic relationships

1. Most closely related to cockroaches

II. Morphological characteristics

A. Soft bodied - roproductives and soldiers

B. No constriction of waist

C. Opaque or dark wings - with dark veins

D. Chewing Mouthparts

E. Wing Scales

F. Equal sized wings

G. Monoform or filiform antenna

H. Sterile workers are male and female

I. Nasutiform - spray irritating liquid from frontal gland up to 100 mm

J. Phragmotic heads

K. Fontanelle - secretions from top of head glue soil to gather

III.Biology

Termite Mound - Brigham Young/VPI & SU PCD0330026