In termite biology, how are primary reproductives characterized?

Primary reproductives are characterized as the main reproductive group in a termite colony. This group typically consists of the king and queen termites, which are responsible for the reproduction that sustains and grows the colony. The primary reproductives produce the majority of the colony's offspring, ensuring its survival and expansion.

In contrast, worker termites perform the essential tasks of foraging, building, and caring for the young, while soldier termites are specialized for defense against predators. Secondary reproductives may also exist in some species, but they serve a different role, often emerging when the primary reproductives are unavailable. Their function is not to be the main reproductive source but rather a backup. Thus, the classification of primary reproductives as the main reproductive group clearly indicates their significance in the lifecycle and structure of the termite colony.