What substance do termites primarily consume for energy?

Termites primarily consume cellulose for energy, which is a key component found in plant material, especially in wood, leaves, and other plant-based substances. Cellulose is a complex carbohydrate that many organisms, including termites, rely on as a primary energy source.

Termites possess symbiotic microorganisms in their guts, such as bacteria and protozoa, which help them digest cellulose, breaking it down into simpler sugars that the termites can then utilize. This ability to digest cellulose is what allows termites to thrive on a diet that many other creatures find indigestible.

While starch, protein, and sugars are important nutrients for various organisms, they are not the primary energy source for termites. Understanding this relationship with cellulose is crucial for comprehending termite biology and their role in the ecosystem, particularly in nutrient recycling within wooded environments.