Why Do Termites Eat Wood?

Need to get rid of termites? Read on to learn the answers to all of your important questions. Need help? Call our professionals today to get started.

What Are Termites?

You can live for a long time in your home while termites live right alongside you and never even know it. 

Termites, small insects who live in colonies with caste-like social structures, have an important job in the larger ecosystem of the world: to take cellulose, the most plentiful organic compound found in nature, and break it back down into earth. 

You can think of termites as soil engineers who are not only expert decomposers but also help influence the distribution of natural resources like water and nutrients in the landscape which, in turn, affects the diversity of soil microbes, plants and animals. 

So while we think of termites as destructive pests, which they are if found in our homes, they are also major drivers of nutrient and biodiversity in our environment.

Why Do Termites Eat Wood?

We all know that termites eat wood, but what they are really consuming is the cellulose that makes up the wood. As mentioned above, cellulose is the most bountiful organic compound found in nature. Termites can get all their nutrients from this material. 

Not only do termites eat wood, but many species also live in wood as well. 

Termites are able to break down this cellulose and get at the nutrients because they have a symbiotic relationship with protozoa. 

Protozoa are microscopic organisms that produce enzymes that facilitate the digestion process. Termites extract the cellulose in wood and the enzymes then convert the cellulose into sugars. 

When to Call Pest Control Experts

Pest Control Experts can provide the right solution to all your termite issues. 

Because a termite infestation is a serious problem, don’t put off getting it checked out. It can be very detrimental to your home and your investment.

If you think you have termites in or around your home or are interested in prevention and protection from termites, call Pest Control Experts for a home inspection.