Termites’ wood-heavy diet offers little nitrogen, a critical nutrient for growth and reproduction. But their exoskeletons are nitrogen rich, and new research shows that eating shed exoskeletons after molting is a core strategy for recycling nitrogen throughout the termite colony in species such as the Asian subterranean termite (Coptotermes gestroi, soldier shown here)—and boosting the queen’s egg-laying. (Photo via Pest and Diseases Image Library, Bugwood.org)