Drywood termites
Scientific name: Kalotermitidae
Drywood termites
Scientific name: Kalotermitidae
Description
Despite their destructive reputation, termites of the family Kalotermitidae play a crucial ecological role by breaking down tough plant fibers, recycling dead and decaying trees. Interestingly, while often vilified for damaging wooden structures, most Kalotermitidae species actually never encounter human habitations. They are 'drywood termites' living predominantly within undecayed wood with a low moisture content, unlike their infamous relatives that invade homes.