Subterranean termite prophylactic secretions and external antifungal defenses

► Termites express GNBPs with β-1,3-glucanase activity in salivary glands. ► Antifungal β-1,3-glucanases are secreted over the cuticle and in nest materials. ► Inhibition of GNBP enzyme activity decreased external antifungal activity. ► Inhibition of GNBPs increased vulnerability to naturally encountered fungi. ► Secreted β-1,3-glucanases provide external antifungal defenses in termites.