Why can Cryptotermes termites survive long journeys inside wooden objects?

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Learn how termites use salivary secretions to cement debris to decaying wood nests in their rainforest habitat — termite A termite nest in a tropical rainforest.

Cryptotermes termites are able to survive long journeys inside wooden objects because they live in small colonies directly within the wood they consume and possess a high tolerance for long periods of dryness.1

Unlike subterranean species that require constant access to soil moisture, these dry-wood termites do not need a soil connection to survive. This biological adaptation allows them to thrive in seasoned lumber, furniture, and shipping crates, facilitating their accidental transport by humans across great distances.12