OPM Termite Practice Exam

How far can a drywood termite cut across a gallery?

1. 1-2 galleries wide

2. 3-6 galleries wide

3. 7-10 galleries wide

4. More than 10 galleries wide

The correct answer is: 3-6 galleries wide

Drywood termites are known for their ability to excavate extensive tunnels, or galleries, within the wood they infest. The answer indicating a width of 3-6 galleries is accurate because, in their natural behavior, these termites can create pathways that are effectively 3 to 6 galleries wide as they navigate through the wood searching for cellulose food sources, which includes other parts of the wood structure. This range reflects their tunneling behavior, where they tend to expand their galleries as they encounter more wood. Their capability to do this allows them to infest large areas of wood with minimal external signs, making it a challenge to identify infestations early. In contrast, the other options indicate widths that either exceed their typical tunneling behavior or fall below the average, making them less likely scenarios when considering the typical activity of drywood termites in their natural environments. Therefore, recognizing the structured approach they take during their tunneling helps in managing and understanding these pests, as well as tailoring control and prevention methods effectively.