The Architectural Wonder of the Termite Tube

Termites of most varieties must maintain contact with the soil, but this might seem farfetched when they are eating away at wood studs on the second floor of a building. Unless they have the technical capabilities to provide water lines to their positions, how do they maintain this connection to moisture?

The termite tube is an amazing structure. Workers make these tubes as they travel from the ground upwards. They use spit, dirt, and some of the wood they consume to build these compact and airtight passageways. Sometimes the tubes are evident to the naked eye, and sometimes they are hidden within wood that is being destroyed.

Termites and Termite Tubes

Worker termites never stop, but they have to seek moisture to maintain themselves and be able to process cellulose. The tubes are actually highways that allow these busy insects to go and come from the source of moisture. Additionally, the raceways are kept moist themselves.

Sometimes, the tubes are built just to seek a food source. Termites have the uncanny ability to recognize where there is wood to eat, so tubes are seldom built to the wrong place.

A Termite Control Company and Termite Tubes

An amazing fact is how worker termites know how to build tubes without any training. Their tubes are large enough and constructed in a manner that they don’t collapse unless a predator causes the demise. The tubes are also a way for termites to hide from ants, birds, and other predators.

Termite tubes should be a sign that it is time to call the exterminator. The food source the tubes lead to can lead to mass destruction in your home. Prompt attention by a qualified pest control expert is essential to avoid costly damage to your property. Don’t wait until it’s too late!