Which form (caste) of termites is directly responsible for damaging wood?

The worker caste of termites is directly responsible for damaging wood. These termites have well-developed mouthparts, which they use to chew wood and other cellulose-based materials. Their primary role within the colony involves foraging for food, caring for the queen and her eggs, and constructing and maintaining the nest. As they consume wood, they can cause significant structural damage to buildings and trees, making them a key focus for pest management efforts.

The other castes, such as soldiers, do not participate in feeding on wood and primarily defend the colony against predators. The queen is focused on reproduction, while winged reproductives are involved in the process of mating and establishing new colonies. Their functions do not contribute to the direct damage of wood, which is solely the responsibility of the worker termites.