What do subterranean termites need a lot of in order to survive?

Subterranean termites are highly reliant on moisture for their survival. They thrive in environments with high humidity because their bodies are prone to desiccation, meaning they can easily dry out. This moisture is crucial not only for their own hydration but also for the construction of their nests, as they require damp soil to maintain the necessary environmental conditions for their colony.

In contrast, while food is essential for termites, they primarily feed on cellulose found in wood, paper, and other plant materials. However, without the adequate moisture necessary for their physiological needs, the termites would not survive to consume their food.

Other factors such as light and space may influence their behavior and nest-building activity, but they are not critical to their survival in the same way that moisture is. Light is particularly detrimental to subterranean termites, as they favor dark environments that protect them from predators and dehydration. Space is also less of a primary concern because they can adapt their colonies to fit within their available environment, as long as moisture is present. Thus, moisture stands out as the essential element that subterranean termites need in abundance to survive.