"White ants" is a common, though misleading, name for termites. They are not actually ants, but they do share a similar social structure. Here's what termites typically look like:
- Color: Most termites are pale, ranging from creamy white to light brown. Some reproductive termites (swarmers) can be darker, even black or dark brown.
- Body: Unlike ants, termites have a broad waist, meaning there is no constricted area between their thorax and abdomen. They appear more cylindrical or cigar-shaped.
- Antennae: Termite antennae are straight or slightly curved, like a string of beads. Ants' antennae, on the other hand, are bent or elbowed.
- Wings: Reproductive termites have four wings of equal length that extend well past the end of their body. Ants have forewings that are larger than their hindwings.
- Size: Termites vary in size depending on their role in the colony, but are typically smaller than most ants, often measuring less than half an inch in length.
Understanding these distinguishing features helps in correctly identifying termites and differentiating them from ants, which is crucial for pest management.