Which caste in a termite colony is responsible for tunneling and feeding?

The workers in a termite colony are primarily responsible for tunneling and feeding, which is crucial for the colony's survival and growth. They perform the tasks necessary for maintaining the nest, foraging for food, and caring for the young. By tunneling, they help create the extensive network of galleries that allows the colony to access food sources such as wood or plant material. Additionally, their feeding role ensures that the colony has the necessary nutrients to thrive, as they consume cellulose and convert it into energy that supports the entire colony, including the reproductives and soldiers.

In contrast, soldiers are primarily tasked with protecting the colony from predators and do not partake in feeding or tunneling. Primary reproductives are focused on mating and establishing new colonies, while supplementary reproductives serve a similar purpose to the primary ones but under specific conditions. Therefore, the correct identification of the caste that engages in tunneling and feeding activities is the workers.