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Termites have been around for more than 120 million years, but scientists have just learned that some members of the insects can grow the size of their brains when they are about to leave the nests.
Researchers at Drexel University have learned that king and queen dampwood termites — the only members of the swarm to leave the nest — can grow the optic lobe part of their brain as they are about to leave the nest to mate and build other dwellings.
They found that the regions in the brain matched the insect's cognitive demands—but the changes in the brain happened before they knew they needed it.
This suggests it happens when the insect is developing into a certain 'caste,' in this case, a king or queen.
Some members of the insects can grow the size of their brains when they are about to leave the nests.
King and queen dampwood termites can grow the optic lobe part of their brain
'The term 'caste' when applied to insect societies—is the idea that you have specialized individuals that play different roles,' said the study's lead author, Drexel University professor Sean O'Donnell in a statement.
'Neuroecology explores how brains evolve and develop with the idea that the brain structure of an individual is going to be shaped by the demands it faces.
'Learning that the kings and queens
