Which element is essential for termite digestion?

Cellulose is essential for termite digestion because it is the primary component of plant cell walls and serves as a major food source for termites. Termites consume wood, which is predominantly made up of cellulose, and they possess specialized microorganisms, such as bacteria and protozoa, in their guts that help break down this complex carbohydrate into simpler sugars. This symbiotic relationship allows termites to effectively utilize cellulose as an energy source, which is crucial for their survival and reproduction.

Chitin, while present in the exoskeletons of insects and some fungi, is not a primary food source for termites. Carbon dioxide is a byproduct of respiration and plays no direct role in digestion. Water, although essential for many biological processes, is not a key component in the digestion of food substances specifically related to termites. Therefore, cellulose is vital in their digestive processes, making it the correct answer.