Beak-Headed Termite

Nasutitermes ??

a praying mantis, Mantidae, in Kitale, Kenya. Photo © by Michael Plagens

Termites from a piece of timber laying on the soil. Kitale, Kenya, January 2014.

These termites were found feeding on wood that had been in direct contact with soil. The nozzle-shaped heads can eject a defensive chemical which is stored in quantity inside the bulbous head. For ants or other predators attempting to enter the termite mound/nest, this is a very effective repellant.

Termitidae -- Termite Family

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Kenya Natural History

Copyright Michael J. Plagens. Page created 23 May 2014