Which of the following statements best explains the reason why termites swarm at night?

Analyze the question: The question asks why winged termites (alates) swarm at night. Look for the answer that best explains this behavior.

Concept: Swarming is the mating flight, when winged reproductive termites leave the colony to find mates and start new colonies. Alates are weak fliers and have soft bodies, so they are easy prey for many animals. Many termite species swarm at dusk or at night, often after the first rains. This is an adaptation that reduces predation and helps them avoid harsh daytime conditions.

Evaluate each option:

• A. Light is not necessary for swarming. This is not an explanation of why they swarm at night. Many termites are in fact attracted to lights once they are airborne. ✗
• B. They avoid day-flying birds. Birds, lizards and other predators hunt alates by day. Swarming at night lowers the risk of being eaten, which improves the chance of survival and mating. ✓
• C. Light destroys their wings. This is false. Termites shed their wings naturally after the mating flight, and light does not destroy them. ✗
• D. They can only see in the dark. This is false. Alates have functional eyes and are drawn to light sources at night. ✗

Answer: Option B. Swarming at night is a predator-avoidance strategy.

Exam tip: For "why does an animal do X at night/day" questions, look for the option that gives a survival benefit, such as avoiding predators or conserving water. Be wary of options that make absolute claims such as "can only see" or "destroys".