Wood Destroying Organism (WDO) Home Inspection Practice Exam

The choice of chemical signals as the correct form of communication for maintaining colony structure among termites is well-founded in the behavioral studies of these insects. Termites primarily use pheromones, which are chemical substances secreted by individuals of a species that trigger social responses in other members of the same species.

In the context of termite colonies, chemical communication is essential for several reasons. It facilitates the coordination of activities such as foraging, nest maintenance, alarm signaling, and reproductive behaviors. Pheromones help individuals identify their nest mates and communicate the presence of food sources or threats, which is vital for the colony's survival and function.

While vibrations and sound can play a role in some insect communication, they are not as prevalent or effective in termites, where chemical signaling dominates. Visual cues are also limited in importance due to the subterranean and often dark environments termites inhabit. Overall, chemical signals are integral for organizing the complex social structure and tasks within termite colonies.