What is one characteristic of soldier termites?

Soldier termites are characterized by their blindness, which is a key adaptation for their role within the colony. Unlike other castes, such as workers and swarmers, soldier termites do not have well-developed eyes, as their primary function is to protect the colony rather than to navigate or forage for food. Their lack of vision is compensated by other senses, such as touch and smell, which they use to identify threats and communicate with other members of the colony.

In contrast, reproductive termites have the ability to reproduce, and swarmers are known for their winged characteristics and flight, which they use to locate new colony sites. While worker termites are responsible for feeding and caring for the queen and her offspring, soldier termites do not feed on wood; that function is primarily performed by the workers. Thus, the characteristic of being blind effectively highlights the specialized role soldier termites play in the survival and defense of the colony.