Trail pheromone production makes it possible to control movement in cultures by recruitment to sites with optimal conditions. Appear to accumulate uric acid in fat body. High relative humidity required. Diseases could be a problem. California to Texas and Florida, common desert subterranean termite, stumps, logs and dry cow dung, absence of white fat body deposits suggests low levels of nitrogen accumulation Gnathamitermes spp.
Most species feed on dry dung.
May have good potential for culturing on cow chips collected from range or manure in feed lots, dairies, stables, or zoos. May have role in manure management programs and fly control, especially Gnathamitermes and a related new genus. May also have potential for decomposition of disposable diapers or sewage sludge. Tenuirostritermes may have potential use for decomposition of grass clippings, straw, spoiled hay or chaff. Also species generate large fat rich alates, especially Tenuirostritermes.