Can subterranean termite colonies establish a colony without soil contact?

Subterranean termite colonies have a biological requirement for soil contact as part of their lifecycle. They typically establish their colonies in the soil because that is where they find moisture and suitable conditions for their survival. The queens lay eggs in the soil, and the workers forage for food in wood and other cellulose materials while maintaining a connection to the soil for moisture.

While they do have the ability to build mud tubes that allow them to travel above ground, these structures are still linked back to the soil. The association with soil is critical because subterranean termites are often more vulnerable to desiccation without a moisture source. So, the idea that they can establish a colony without soil contact is incorrect, as they fundamentally need that connection for both moisture and optimal environmental conditions to develop and thrive.

Therefore, the correct understanding is that subterranean termite colonies do require soil contact to establish and sustain themselves effectively.