Oldest known active termite hills discovered in South Africa

Scientists in South Africa have discovered the oldest known active termite hills to date, at over 30,000 years old. Researchers from Stellenbosch University used radiocarbon dating to determine some termite mounds in an arid region of the country were about 34,000 years old. Ms Francis said the Namaqualand mounds are a termite version of an "apartment complex" and the evidence shows they have been consistently inhabited by termite colonies. Ms Francis is calling for more research on termite mounds — especially on the lessons they offer on climate change, sustaining ecosystems and maybe even improving agricultural practices.