How do termites digest wood?

Termites digest wood using symbiotic microorganisms, such as bacteria and protozoa, in their gut. These microorganisms produce enzymes that break down cellulose, the primary component of wood, into sugars that termites can absorb as energy. Without these gut symbionts, termites would be unable to process their primary food source. This symbiosis is essential for the survival of both the termites and their microbial partners.