What is a distinctive characteristic of the ecosystem subterranean termites live in?

Subterranean termites are primarily found in ecosystems that offer abundant moisture, which is essential for their survival. These termites are highly dependent on a moist environment to maintain their soft bodies, facilitate digestion, and enable their ability to create tunnels and colonies within the soil. The presence of moisture promotes the decomposition of wood and plant matter, which is a crucial food source for termites. In contrast, an ecosystem that is always dry would not provide the necessary conditions for these insects to thrive. Being isolated from other insects or living mainly above ground does not accurately reflect the characteristics of subterranean termite habitats, as they usually exist in a complex ecosystem that includes interactions with various organisms. Therefore, the abundance of moisture in their environment is a defining characteristic of the ecosystems where subterranean termites are found.