Georgia Correctional Officer (CO) Practice Exam

Which term describes the social structure of termite colonies?

1. Hierarchy

2. Ecology

3. Colony structure

4. Community

The correct answer is: Colony structure

The correct answer is "Colony structure", which refers specifically to the organized and interdependent social framework within termite colonies. In termite societies, individuals fulfill various roles or tasks that contribute to the overall functioning and survival of the colony. This includes the division of labor among different castes such as workers, soldiers, and reproductive individuals. While "Hierarchy" could seem relevant due to the ranking of roles within the colony, it does not capture the full complexity of termite social organization in the same way that "colony structure" encompasses both the roles and interactions among the members. "Ecology" pertains more broadly to the relationships between organisms and their environment, which doesn't specifically describe the organization of the termite colony itself. Similarly, "Community" generally refers to groups of different species interacting in a certain area, which again falls short of addressing the specific social structure within the termite colony. Thus, "colony structure" accurately represents the unique organization and function of termite colonies, making it the best choice.