Dampwood termites require which condition for survival?

Dampwood termites are specifically adapted to thrive in environments with high moisture content. They do not infest dry wood, as their name suggests. Instead, they predominantly seek out wood that has a high level of moisture, typically found in decaying or damp wooden structures, logs, or trees. This moisture is vital for their survival, as it allows them to digest the cellulose in the wood properly and facilitates their reproduction and growth.

Contact with soil is generally more relevant to other types of termites, such as subterranean termites, which build their colonies in the ground. Exposure to sunlight and dry wood are unsuitable conditions for dampwood termites and would not support their needs for sustenance and survival. Therefore, the requirement for high moisture content in wood is a defining characteristic of dampwood termites, making it the correct answer.