Is the ability of termites to survive without soil contact a characteristic of drywood termites?

The ability of termites to survive without soil contact is indeed a characteristic of drywood termites. This species of termite does not rely on soil for moisture or food as they infest and establish colonies within the wood itself. Drywood termites extract moisture from the wood they consume, allowing them to thrive in a variety of environments, including drier conditions, where soil contact is not essential for their survival.

Other types of termites, such as subterranean termites, are highly dependent on soil for moisture and must remain in contact with it to survive. They create mud tubes to access wooden structures while maintaining the necessary moisture levels. This distinguishes them from drywood termites, whose independence from soil contact allows them to establish colonies in dry wood and structural components of buildings without the need for soil proximity.

In contrast, the ideas presented in the other options do not apply to the nature of drywood termites, reinforcing the understanding of their unique characteristics compared to other termite species.