News Ecosystems

Feces in termites’ nests block biological pest control

Built-in poop nourishes bacteria that protect notorious Formosan species

termites

GROUP HEALTH PLAN  One Formosan termite may be little  and vulnerable but together the insects can draw on many protective powers, including fecal microbes built into their colony walls.

Scott Bauer

By Susan Milius

- More than 2 years ago

Mixing their own poop into nest walls gives Formosan termites a bacterial boost in fighting off human attempts to destroy them with insect plagues.