4. The Ancient Mounds of Northern Australia
Scientists have found some of the oldest known termite mounds in the isolated parts of Northern Australia; some colonies go back more than 50 years. Built by Nasutitermes triodiae, these constructions create large fields of mounds spanning many square kilometers. The mounds have unique spires that can reach heights of five meters; some specimens exhibit signs of ongoing occupation and maintenance over decades. These mounds have architectural intricacy including advanced ventilation systems that control indoor temperatures independent of outside changes ranging from nearly cold to above 40°C.
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