What do subterranean termites primarily eat?

Subterranean termites primarily consume cellulose, a complex carbohydrate found in the cell walls of plants, particularly in wood, grass, and leaves. Cellulose serves as the main food source for these pests, enabling them to break down plant material and recycle nutrients back into the soil.

While wood is often associated with termites because it is a common manifestation of their damage, it is specifically the cellulose within the wood that they digest. This distinction is crucial because it highlights their role in ecosystems as decomposers. Contrarily, they do not eat materials such as metal or plastic, which lack cellulose, making them unsuitable as food sources. Understanding that cellulose is their primary dietary component clarifies the broader context of their feeding habits and ecological significance.