Atlas of Habitats

colony

0.005 m³

at 3.2 m

6.73ºN

[entwined] nest

earth

glueing

mixed

invertebrates

[entwined] nest

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Introduction

Liberia
Robertsport Shipwreck trail
6.7391° N, 11.3774° W
08/04/2024, 2:28 pm

Many termites, especially species in tropical rainforests like those in West Africa, build nests on trees. Termites use the materials from the trees to create strong, insulated, and moisture-regulated nests, which provide protection to the termite colony against predators and environmental conditions. We saw many different termite mounds, attached either to trees or even wooden structures.

Micro Climate

In the hot, humid environments of West Africa, the mounds and tunnels protect termites from extreme temperatures and humidity variations. Termites regulate the temperature and humidity inside their mounds. Termites are soft-bodied insects, and exposure to air and sunlight can dry them out or make them vulnerable to predators like ants or birds.

Material

The dark, clay-like structure shown in the image is typical of termite nests, which are made of soil, wood particles, and saliva. Termites use these materials to create strong, insulated, and moisture-regulated nests. Termites are highly attracted to wood and wooden structures because they rely on wood as a primary food source.

Location

Termites cannot distinguish between natural wood and the wood used for human-made structures (like homes or buildings). As a result, they may infest wooden beams, floors, and other structures, causing significant damage. Here, we found them high up in a tree, which we had to climb up to document and scan the habitat.

Construction

Termite mounds are often irregular, lumpy, and appear to be almost fused to a tree's surface. The texture can also appear to be rough and organic. The mud tubes that termites build are actually covered passageways. These tunnels allow them to travel safely between their nest and food sources (such as wood) without being exposed.