Georgia Correctional Officer (CO) Practice Exam

What unique characteristic does the Formosan termite have?

1. It does not swarm

2. It has hair on its wings

3. It prefers dry wood

4. It leaves a sticky residue

The correct answer is: It has hair on its wings

The Formosan termite is distinctive in that it possesses hair on its wings, which differentiates it from many other termite species. This characteristic is significant in identification and classification, as wing morphology can be an important factor in entomology. Termites are generally understood to be divided into different families and species, and the presence of hair on the wings of Formosan termites is a unique trait that can aid pest control professionals in correctly identifying them in comparison to other types like subterranean termites, which lack this feature. This distinction can be particularly critical in pest management and control strategies, where accurate identification is necessary for effective treatment. Understanding the physical characteristics of these pests allows for appropriate responses to infestations, thereby protecting structures and preventing further damage.