Georgia Correctional Officer (CO) Practice Exam

Which type of termites are known to have teeth on their mandibles?

1. Subterranean termites

2. Drywood termites

3. Eastern subterranean termites

4. Formosan termites

The correct answer is: Drywood termites

The correct response identifies Drywood termites as known for having teeth on their mandibles. This anatomical feature allows them to efficiently chew through the wood as they create their nests and consume cellulose, which is their primary food source. Drywood termites possess mandibles that have distinct serrations, aiding their foraging behavior and wood consumption. In contrast, Subterranean termites and Formosan termites, which are also types of subterranean termites, typically have smoother mandibles adapted for tunneling through soil and wood rather than tearing. Eastern subterranean termites, a specific type of subterranean termite, share this trait, as both groups primarily use their mandibles for digging and tunneling rather than the aggressive wood consumption characteristic of Drywood termites. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for pest control professionals in identifying termite species and implementing appropriate management strategies. In this case, recognizing the unique dental structure of Drywood termites reinforces the importance of studying various termite types and their behaviors.