Lower subterranean termites
- Pronunciation
- /LOW-er sub-ter-RAIN-ee-an TER-mites/
- Category
- Taxonomy
- Singular
- Lower subterranean termite
- Plural
- Lower subterranean termites
Definition
A group of subterranean termites classified as belonging to the lower termites, characterized by their use of symbiotic protozoa and bacteria in their digestive system to break down cellulose, unlike higher termites which rely on bacteria alone.
Etymology
Example
Lower subterranean termites rely on symbiotic protozoa to assist in digesting cellulose.
Related Terms
- Subterranean termites
- Higher termites
- Termite classification
Usage Notes
The term 'lower' refers to their position in the evolutionary history of termites, indicating they retain more primitive characteristics.