Wood Destroying Organism (WDO) Home Inspection Practice Exam

Many species of termites depend on protozoa in their gut to digest cellulose for what nutritional content?

1. A) Sugar

2. B) Protein

3. C) Fiber

4. D) Moisture

The correct answer is: A) Sugar

Termites primarily consume cellulose, a complex carbohydrate found in plant material. However, they lack the enzymes necessary to break down cellulose on their own. This is where protozoa come into play. The protozoa residing in the termites' guts help in the fermentation process, breaking down cellulose into simpler sugars, which the termites can then digest and utilize for energy. The correct answer focuses on the nutritional content derived from cellulose digestion, which ultimately leads to the production of sugars. These sugars are crucial as they provide the necessary energy for the termites, enabling their survival and function within their ecosystem. This relationship showcases a fascinating example of mutualism, where both the termite and the protozoa benefit from their interaction, leading to a nutrient source that is vital for the termite's diet.