Do drywood termites feed their feces to their young?

Drywood termites do indeed feed their feces, known as frass, to their young. This behavior is a part of their nutrient recycling strategy, which allows the young termites to access the cellulose and other nutrients left in their parents' waste. Feces can also contain beneficial microorganisms that help in the digestion of wood material, aiding in the development of the larvae.

This behavior provides the juvenile termites with essential nutrients that may not be readily available in their environment, essentially giving them a head start in their growth and development. The practice enhances the sustainability of their colony by ensuring that resources are efficiently utilized. This characteristic is specific to certain species of social insects, with drywood termites being one of the well-studied examples.

Understanding this behavior is crucial for pest management and controlling termite populations, as it reveals insights into their life cycle and feeding habits.