Georgia Correctional Officer (CO) Practice Exam

How far can subterranean termite swarmers typically fly?

1. A few feet

2. ½ mile or more

3. 1 mile or more

4. Up to 2 miles

The correct answer is: ½ mile or more

Subterranean termite swarmers are capable of flying distances of around half a mile or more during their mating flights. This distance allows them to disperse from their original colony in search of new environments where they can establish new colonies. The ability to travel significant distances is crucial for the survival and proliferation of the species, as it helps them to find suitable locations that are not already heavily populated by other termite colonies. In contrast, options that suggest shorter distances, such as a few feet, do not account for the biological capabilities of the swarmers to effectively spread and colonize new areas. Similarly, options indicating distances of one mile or two miles may overestimate the average range that these insects typically cover, as studies generally indicate that half a mile is a more realistic estimate for their swarming behavior. Thus, the correct answer reflects an accurate understanding of the natural behavior and ecology of subterranean termite swarmers.