Termitat® // Living Termite Exhibit

How long do they live? Do you need to add more wood at some time?

The colony theoretically could live forever. They will prosper as long as there is a source of wood and they are safe from enemies (mainly ants). The wood in the Termitat will last from 3-5 years depending on its care and the corresponding level of reproduction by the colony. When the majority of the wood is eaten, the Termitat can be returned and a rebuild with new wood can be purchased.

Is there a fertilized queen (for reproduction) or are these just drones?

The male and female "workers" (not a specialized cast) are made up of "nymphs" that go through up to 6 molts. Each time they molt they can become more a specialized body type. (ie: male and female soldiers or supplementary reproductives). You'll get eventual reproduction in the colony and soldiers for their protection.

Does it smell?

Nope! No smell at all.

What type of care do the termites require?

They require just a bit of water once in a while. There is a small tube incorporated into the upper support rod. You get a rubber-tipped syringe to inject water into this at the very top of the grey ring.

Do different temperatures and types of light make a difference?

They are pretty accepting of any light. Just choose a low light area with no direct sun. They also like temperatures that humans like. There are limits to what you can subject them to and for how long, but it's all covered in the directions.

Can they escape?

No, they cannot escape unless you open the case or break the case open which is hard to do. It's made out of 1/4" thick acrylic. The tiny watering hole on top is too small for anything but maybe the minuscule first instars to exit. However, they will never wander away from the colony, they are social/colonial animals.

How strong is the clear casing? Is it strong enough to with stand being knocked over?

Yes! We've dropped them from waist high on the floor and had no real damage. It is made of 1/4" thick acrylic. The ring is injection molded plastic so it is very tough.

As they reproduce won't there be too many for that amount of wood?

They keep their numbers limited after an initial population boomlet.
Since the cellulose diet is low on protein, the termites will consume any that die.

If it is a sealed unit other than the water hole, how do they breathe?

There is enough air leaking in around the edges of the ring for them to do well. They like ~33% CO2 and no air movement. Air movement means a breach and maybe ants coming in.

Where do I get the termites?

The Termitat comes with the termites already installed and busy eating away. They will increase their numbers with good care and also make new soldiers.

What’s the lowest and highest temperatures that they can withstand in a room?

They like temps humans do. They can handle mid 80 degrees for a short
time. The same for the low forties. Avoid direct sun as it causes a
greenhouse effect in the case. Normal house temps do well.