What role do subterranean termite workers NOT perform?

Subterranean termite workers play a crucial role within their colony, performing various tasks that contribute to its success. They are responsible for constructing intricate tunnels that allow them to navigate through their environment efficiently. This tunneling is essential for feeding and protecting the colony from predators.

Worker termites also take part in the care of the queen by feeding her, which is vital for sustaining the reproductive capabilities of the colony. They maintain the queen's health and ensure the colony can thrive by providing her the nutrients she needs.

Additionally, termite workers groom other members of the colony, including the queen and nymphs, helping to maintain hygiene and health within the group.

However, laying eggs is not a task that worker termites perform. This function is designated solely for the queen, as she is the only member of the colony that reproduces. The reproductive role of laying eggs is vital to the colony's continuation and is distinct from the supportive roles that workers undertake. Therefore, the correct answer highlights that while worker termites are essential to the colony's organization and support, they do not engage in reproduction.