Swarm of the eastern subterranean termite, Reticulitermes flavipes. this is the most widely distributed North American termite and is found in the entire eastern region of North America as far north as Ontario, Canada, and south to Key Largo, Florida. There are 3 castes, workers, soldiers and reproductives (king, queen and winged alates). In spring the alates emerge to swarm, mate and establish new colonies. Unlike the other 2 castes, alates care deeply pigmented, have compound eyes, and 2 pairs of wings. Subterranean termites serve a useful function in nature by recycling dead wood and tree debris, but when they infest homes and lumber become among the most serious pest species. Photo McCurtain Co., AR.