Soldiers have a flattened brown or yellowish brown head with elongated black or dark brown mandibles. Nymphs are cream-colored with a characteristic spotted abdominal pattern caused by food in their intestines. Most termite species swarm in late summer or fall, although subterranean termites may also swarm in spring. An infestation begins when a mated pair finds a suitable nesting site near or in wood and constructs a small chamber, which they enter and seal. Soon afterward, the female begins egg laying, and both the king and queen feed the young on predigested food until they are able to feed themselves.
Termites go through incomplete metamorphosis with egg, nymph, and adult stages.
Nymphs resemble adults but are smaller. Soldiers have greatly enlarged heads and mandibles which they use to defend their colonies. Workers, the most numerous caste in colonies of many termite species, are responsible for constructing living chambers and tunnels and foraging for food. They also groom and feed one another and other colony members. Workers of the more advanced species probably evolved from this caste.