Isoptera (Termites)

"White Ants" (1) (though they are unrelated to ants)

Termita (Spanish), Termites (French)

Isoptera: eye-SAW-ptera

Termites have long been considered their own order, Isoptera, but they are now considered to be a specialized group of cockroaches. The name Termitoidae has been proposed for an epifamily within superfamily Blattoidea containing the termite families.

Isoptera from Greek iso same, plus pteron wing, referring to the similar appearance of all four wings.

Termite is from New Latin Termes (genitive Termit-), from Classical Latin tarmes (tarmit-) a "wood-worm", probably derived from the verb terere to rub (1).

Insects of Cedar Creek lists 44 North American species in four families.

All termites live in colonies, although the size of the colonies can range from very small (within a single twig) to very large (city blocks).

All termites eat dead plant material, most often wood. Symbiotic bacteria (and protozoa in some species) assist in digesting cellulose from wood.

The entirety of Isoptera is comprised of eusocial species. Unlike other eusocial groups (e.g. Formicidae, Apidae, Vespidae) termites do not have haplodiploid genetics, and both males and females maintain the colony. In addition to the primary reproductive castes (Kings and Queens), and sterile Worker caste, many species also produce a Soldier Caste. Soldiers are not merely larger workers, as is seen in the ants. Their head capsules are uniquely designed for defending the colonies, with various species having different designs, depending on the greatest threats for that species. Most Soldiers cannot feed themselves, and instead rely on Workers to feed and groom them. Soldiers can be recognized by their darker head capsules, and their tendency to be near areas of disturbance.

[Note: This guide page includes material copied from another one with contributions from Troy Bartlett, cotinis, and John Carlson]