The 'gamo gamo' insect in English is commonly known as a flying termite. These insects are a specific reproductive stage of termites, also referred to as alates or swarmers.
Understanding Flying Termites (Gamo Gamo)
Unlike the more common worker termites that remain hidden within wooden structures, flying termites are visible and play a crucial role in the termite life cycle.
The provided reference highlights key distinctions for gamo gamo (flying termites):
- Visibility: "Compared to the usual termites, these flying termites don't hide in dark damp places eating away at any wood they find."
- Behavior: "These insects can be found circling lights both indoors and outdoors when it's humid."
This behavior is part of their swarming process, where they emerge from an established colony to mate and form new colonies.
Key Characteristics of Gamo Gamo (Flying Termites)
Identifying a flying termite involves observing specific features:
- Wings: They possess two pairs of wings of equal size, which are often shed shortly after swarming.
- Antennae: Their antennae are straight, not elbowed like those of ants.
- Waist: Flying termites have a broad waist, unlike the constricted waist of ants.
- Attraction to Light: They are strongly attracted to light sources, both artificial and natural, especially during swarming events.
- Environmental Triggers: Their appearance is often triggered by specific weather conditions, primarily high humidity and warmth after rainfall.
Why Do They Appear? The Swarming Process
The emergence of gamo gamo, or flying termites, is a natural part of the termite reproductive cycle. During a termite swarm, winged male and female alates leave their mature colony to:
- Find a Mate: They fly in search of a partner from another colony.
- Establish a New Colony: After mating, they shed their wings, burrow into suitable soil or wood, and begin a new colony, with the pair becoming the new king and queen.
This swarming is a clear indicator of a mature termite colony in the vicinity.
Gamo Gamo vs. Common Termites: A Comparison
It's important to understand the difference between the flying reproductive termites (gamo gamo) and the more destructive worker termites.
| Feature | Gamo Gamo (Flying Termite) | Common Termite (Worker/Soldier) |
|---|---|---|
| Role | Reproductive (Alate), winged | Worker, Soldier (wingless) |
| Primary Activity | Swarming, mating, establishing new colonies | Foraging for food, building tunnels, colony defense |
| Visibility | Visible, attracted to light, appear during swarms | Hidden, typically found inside wood or soil |
| Diet | Not actively eating wood during flight; seeking mates | Actively consume cellulose (wood, paper, fabrics) |
| Body Color | Often darker, more robust | Pale, translucent bodies |
| Lifespan | Brief flight period; most die quickly if new colony not established | Long-lived within the colony, constantly working |
What Does the Presence of Gamo Gamo Indicate?
The sighting of gamo gamo (flying termites) is a strong sign that a mature termite colony is present either in or very close to your property. While the flying termites themselves are not directly consuming your wood, their presence signifies a potential or existing infestation that requires attention.
If you observe flying termites, especially indoors, it's advisable to:
- Do not disturb them immediately: Collect a few specimens for identification.
- Inspect your property: Look for discarded wings, mud tubes, or damaged wood.
- Contact a pest control professional: A thorough inspection by an expert can determine the extent of any infestation and recommend appropriate treatment.
