While we know termites as those pesky bugs that cause billions of dollars in damage a year, it helps to understand that there’s more to them than that. In fact, termites play a pivotal role in protecting the ecosystem. Several species in Des Moines require termite removal, but they’re not all destructive. Here are more facts you may not have known about termites. 

Termites are Always Eating

It may seem like termites cause a lot of destruction at an insane pace. However, when you consider that termite colonies eat non-stop until they fly off to a new colony, the picture becomes clearer. Eating constantly and able to chew through anything, these pests bring the perfect storm of destruction.

We’re Outnumbered by Termites

Anyone who’s ever had a termite infestation or seen a swarm may not have much trouble imagining this, but termites outnumber people– by a lot. For every human in the world, there are 1,000 pounds of termites. It’s estimated that the current total weight of termites on the planet is 445 million tons. 

Most Termites Leave Houses Alone

There are about 2,500 known species of termites in the world, and less than 30 of those species invade people’s homes. Other species only benefit the earth by aerating soil, clearing rotting and dead wood and aiding in plant growth. 

Termites May Predate Dinosaurs

Termites have been around for 250 million years, while the earliest recorded dinosaur dates are closer to 240 million years ago. As notorious as termites are to humans, they’ve always been an important part of the ecosystem. Before humans started building homes, termites took on the task of decomposing organic matter when it started to rot. 

Termite Mounds Protect the Environment

While the damage these bugs cause to buildings is the most noticeable, it’s not the only damage they cause. Termite methane, when termites emit gas, contributes to around three percent of the planet’s methane emissions. Fortunately, termite mounds filter out this greenhouse gas, which cuts the total amount of emissions to half of what it would otherwise be.

Termites Communicate Through Vibrations and Pheromones

You may have heard that termites bang their heads against tunnel walls to warn each other of threats. However, this isn’t the only way they communicate. They also use pheromones to communicate and control each other’s behavior. Queens assign roles through pheromones in their feces, and each colony produces their own distinct scent.

Termites are Nutritious

While it’s uncommon to eat bugs in the US, people in countries in Africa, Asia and South America consume termites for their health benefits. These bugs are rich in iron, calcium, amino acids and protein. Termites can be eaten raw, but most prefer to cook them to bring out their nutty flavor.

Termite Queens Live Up to 20 Years

Some species of termites have queens that live up to 20 years. Over the course of her life, a queen termite is able to lay up to 40,000 eggs per day, and the average queen can lay one every 15 seconds. 

With their 250 million year history on earth, it’s no wonder they often infest homes and businesses undetected. If you find signs of termites, our Des Moines termite removal experts at Pro-Staff can help. Give us a call at 515-279-7378 or contact us online.