Went out in the yard last night and saw some termite movement. I broke out the macro lens with the extension tubes and took a couple of shots. Keep in mind, these guys are 1-2mm long.
Poor old soldiers have no eyes (completely blind) and a huge "nose" known as a "fontanellar gun" that this species of termite has developed as a defense to ants. It shoots a chemical that reportedly stops ants in their tracks.
Caught this worker carrying a dead blade of grass back to the colony while surrounded by soldiers.
and
On the march
A couple of shots from last night
Moderator: Scott Waters
Re: A couple of shots from last night
Was the worker being escorted?
Re: A couple of shots from last night
Being guarded is more accurate. I also have Rapacious panther ants in my yard that are termite eating specialists as seen here with a mouth full of termites:dery wrote: Was the worker being escorted?
They have some serious chompers and it takes several soldiers to deter a panther ant:
JP
Re: A couple of shots from last night
Poor termites. Well, atleast I'm guessing your pest control bill is low.