Which of the following is a characteristic of the Eastern subterranean termite?

The Eastern subterranean termite, known scientifically as Reticulitermes flavipes, is indeed characterized by its construction of mud tubes. These mud tubes are crucial for its survival as they provide a controlled environment that maintains the necessary moisture level for the termites. Since they live underground and rely heavily on moisture to prevent desiccation, these tubes serve as protective corridors that allow them to move between their food sources (typically wood or other cellulose materials) and their nests without exposing themselves to the open air, which can lead to drying out.

The behavior of building mud tubes allows Eastern subterranean termites to inhabit a variety of environments, making them highly adaptable pests in the areas they invade. This trait is fundamentally important for their survival and ability to thrive, especially in areas where soil moisture may vary.

The other choices present characteristics that do not accurately pertain to the Eastern subterranean termite. This termite species thrives in high moisture conditions rather than avoiding them, does not typically create nests above ground in trees, and prefers to live below the surface rather than requiring open air for nesting. All these factors highlight why the choice of mud tube construction is a definitive characteristic of this species.