OPM Termite Practice Exam

Who performs the majority of the work in Western Drywood Termite colonies?

1. The queen

2. Workers

3. Nymphs

4. Soldiers

The correct answer is: Nymphs

In Western Drywood Termite colonies, the majority of the work is performed by the workers. Worker termites are responsible for various essential tasks such as foraging for food, caring for the nymphs, building and repairing the nest, and tending to the queen. They are the backbone of the colony, ensuring survival and growth and maintaining the social structure. While nymphs do play a role in the colony, particularly in terms of development into future workers, their primary function is not to perform labor but rather to grow and adapt into their future roles. The queen primarily focuses on reproduction, laying eggs to sustain the colony's population. Soldiers serve to protect the colony, but they are not involved in daily tasks that support the colony's needs. This distinction highlights the critical contribution of worker termites, categorizing them as the labor force vital for the colony's success.