What is a primary diet component of termites?

Termites primarily feed on wood, which is a crucial component of their diet. Wood contains cellulose, a complex carbohydrate that termites possess the unique capability to digest. Termites have specialized microorganisms, including bacteria and protozoa, in their guts that break down cellulose into simpler compounds that they can absorb for nourishment. This ability to digest cellulose-rich materials allows termites to thrive in environments abundant with dead or decaying wood, where they play a vital role in the ecosystem by breaking down and recycling plant material.

While termites can occasionally consume other organic materials, such as leaf litter or soil that contains decaying plant matter, their predominant food source remains wood. This unique diet distinguishes them from other insects that may feed on plants, fruits, or other insects, highlighting their ecological role in wood decomposition and nutrient cycling within their habitats.