From which type of reproductives do kings and queens develop?

Kings and queens in a termite colony develop from primary reproductives, also known as alate termites. These are the winged reproductive individuals that are produced by the colony during specific seasons, typically when they leave the nest to mate and establish new colonies. The primary reproductives undergo a transformation that allows them to switch from their winged form to a more permanent, wingless state once they have mated and begun a new colony.

The developmental process of kings and queens from the primary reproductives is crucial for the reproductive success and sustainability of termite colonies. These individuals are critical because they carry out the vital functions of reproduction, ensuring the continuation of their species. Understanding this life cycle is fundamental for anyone working in pest control or studying entomology, especially in the context of managing termite populations.