Page 70 - The Miracle of Termites
P. 70

Harun Yahya

                   Specially Sheltered Nests
                   Termite nests are designed to isolate their inhabitants from the

              harsh, constantly changing external conditions in tropical regions. No
              matter what the conditions outside, the temperature and humidity re-
              main stable inside the nest.
                   In order to provide insulation, termites cover their mountain-like
              nests with a compact layer of
              building material that func-
              tions like an outer shell of
              reinforced concrete and
              helps to regulate the nest's

              interior climate in accord-
              ance with the requirements.
              For the eggs, it's essential
              that the temperature inside
              the nest remain constant.  28
              Termites must be very care-
              ful to protect the queen's

              eggs, and this roof serves to
              ensure that the temperature
              is right. The roof also pro-
              tects the colony from intru-
              sions by other creatures,
              since the outer walls are
              very hard and firm. The in-
              ner galleries are much soft-
              er, made of a material that

              almost has the consistency      On the right can be seen the architectural
                                              plan of a termite nest. Looking at a verti-
              of cardboard. 29                cal cross section of the nest, we see the
                                              royal chamber exactly in the middle and
                                              the large and small rooms surrounding it.



              68                     THE MIRACLE OF TERMITES
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