It is possible to obtain termites through a couple of scientific supply houses, but I am always able to collect them from the surrounding area. Look in rotting logs and stumps for these insects. This helps to reduce the cost of the lab.
Preparation time is limited to collection time and set up of the lab for microscope work.
The termites can be kept in a jar with dirt and a rotting log for several weeks if it is watered down occasionaly. This activity utilizes the common ground termite, Reticulitermes flavipes and the protozoan Tricohonympha to show the symbiotic relationship of mutualism. It is a relatively easy procedure that requires only minimal materials and supplies. They are then ready to collect one live termite and place it on the microscope slide. Using the two needles place one on the front end of the termite and one on the abdomen.