What is the life cycle of a termite?

The life cycle of a termite consists of three primary stages: egg, nymph, and adult. In this process, the queen termite lays eggs, which hatch into nymphs. Nymphs are immature termites that undergo a series of molts as they grow. Depending on environmental conditions and genetic factors, some nymphs will develop into reproductive adults, while others may become workers or soldiers within the colony. This three-stage life cycle allows for the continuous growth and maintenance of termite colonies, with each stage playing a crucial role in the social structure and functioning of the colony.

The other choices describe incorrect stages of development for termites; for example, the inclusion of larva and cocoons is more characteristic of insects like moths and butterflies, not termites, which do not undergo a pupal stage. The correct answer reflects the specific developmental process that termites undergo, making it a key aspect of understanding termite biology and management.