Macrotermes michaelseni
Umuswa (Swahili)

Conservation status

Least concern

Habitat

Savannahs

Biology

Most nocturnal termites feed on poorly digestible leaves, grass and even wood and are known for causing severe damage to wooden structures. The mounds — several metres in height — built by various termite species using soil mixed with saliva are sophisticated constructions in which temperature and humidity are continuously regulated. The insects form colonies with a complex social structure.