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Termites (Isoptera) constitute a considerable fraction of the global animal biomass. Conventionally, termite dry biomass estimates (g) range between 1:3 and 1:6 of fresh biomass (g). But estimates are often based on a few species or coarse taxonomic resolution. In this study, we (1) calculated the fresh and dry mass of 15 widely distributed Neotropical termite species (three families) and (2) established the conversion ratio for dry mass, which is indispensable for biomass estimates. Workers and soldiers were sampled in their colonies and quickly weighed in the laboratory to obtain the fresh mass. Then, the individuals were placed in 80% alcohol for 5 days and weighed. Finally, the samples were dried at 60°C for 24 h and weighed again. Our results suggest an average ratio of 1:4.2 (dry‐to‐fresh mass), with a mean (±SE) conversion ratio of 0.24 ± 0.06, for estimating termite biomass at local, regional, and global scales. Moreover, our results demonstrate that values from termites preserved in alcohol could still be used to estimate biomass. Specifically, after insertion in alcohol, the termites lost 16.9%–56% of their water content, with an average of 26.5%. While this represents a source of bias in estimates using samples from biological collections, dry mass was significantly related to fresh mass (Radj2 = 0.99; dry mass = 0.000055 + 0.22 × fresh mass), and to the mass of termites in alcohol (Radj2 = 0.97; dry mass = 0.00014 + 0.26 × mass in alcohol). Applying our results to data from the literature indicates that global termite dry biomass ranges from 89 to 106 Mt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social insects have developed a broad diversity of nesting and foraging strategies. One of these, inquilinism, occurs when one species (the inquiline) inhabits the nest built and occupied by another species (the host). Obligatory inquilines must overcome strong constraints upon colony foundation and development, due to limited availability of host colonies. To reveal how inquilinism shapes reproductive strategies in a termite host‐inquiline dyad, we carried out a microsatellite marker study on Inquilinitermes inquilinus and its host Constrictotermes cavifrons. The proportion of simple, extended and mixed families was recorded in both species, as well as the presence of neotenics, parthenogenesis and multiple foundations. Most host colonies (95%) were simple families and all were monodomous. By contrast, the inquiline showed a higher proportion of extended (30%) and mixed (5%) families, and frequent neotenics (in 25% of the nests). This results from the simultaneous foundation in host nests of numerous incipient colonies, which, as they grow, may compete, fight, or merge. We also documented the use of parthenogenesis by female–female pairs. In conclusion, the classical monogamous colony pattern of the host species suggests uneventful development of simple foundations dispersed in the environment, in accordance with the wide distribution of their resources. By contrast, the multiple reproductive patterns displayed by the inquiline species reveal strong constraints on foundation sites: founders first concentrate into host nests, then must attempt to outcompete or absorb the neighbouring foundations to gain full control of the resources provided by the host nest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kings and queens of termites are endowed with an extraordinary longevity coupled with lifelong fecundity. We recently reported that termite kings and queens display a dramatically increased enzymatic activity and abundance of telomerase in their somatic organs when compared to short‐lived workers and soldiers. We hypothesized that this telomerase activation may represent a noncanonical pro‐longevity function, independent of its canonical role in telomere maintenance. Here, we explore this avenue and investigate whether the presumed noncanonical role of telomerase may be due to alternative splicing of the catalytic telomerase subunit TERT and whether the subcellular localization of TERT isoforms differs among organs and castes in the termite Prorhinotermes simplex. We empirically confirm the expression of four in silico predicted splice variants (psTERT1‐A, psTERT1‐B, psTERT2‐A, psTERT2‐B), defined by N‐terminal splicing implicating differential localizations, and C‐terminal splicing giving rise to full‐length and truncated isoforms. We show that the transcript proportions of the psTERT are caste‐ and tissue‐specific and that the extranuclear full‐length isoform TERT1‐A is relatively enriched in the soma of neotenic kings and queens compared to their gonads and to the soma of workers. We also show that extranuclear TERT protein quantities are significantly higher in the soma of kings and queens compared to workers, namely due to the cytosolic TERT. Independently, we confirm by microscopy the extranuclear TERT localization in somatic organs. We conclude that the presumed pleiotropic action of telomerase combining the canonical nuclear role in telomere maintenance with extranuclear functions is driven by complex TERT splicing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social insects are arthropods that lives in a community with other members of the same species. Eusocial insects frequently lose colony members as a result of living in big groupings. They perform cooperative corpse management to maintain the hygiene of the nest, exhibiting behavioural and physiological responses that promote disease resistance, nutrient reallocating and colony protection. Undertaking behaviour is most common in social insects belonging to Hymenoptera and Isoptera which adopts various mechanisms of death recognition, convergent and divergent behavioural responses towards dead items. Corpse removal, burial, cannibalism and avoidance are different solutions evolved by social insects, independently towards the problem of corpse management. Genetic studies and gene expression analysis related to social immune systems gives a better knowledge on behavioural and physiological disease defense in insects which could be considered a novel access to biological pest control. This article provides a comprehensive understanding of corpse management in social insects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mastotermitidae, the first-diverging extant family of termites, has only one relic extant species; however, this family had greater richness during the Mesozoic and Cenozoic eras. Fossil termites from the Cretaceous provide information on the early evolution of termites and the transition between extinct families. Herein, two new Mastotermitidae species found in upper Cretaceous (Cenomanian) Kachin amber are reported. One is a female imago described as Angustitermes reflexus gen. et sp. nov. and assigned to the subfamily Mastotermitinae. The other is Mastotermes reticulatus sp. nov., which is described from an isolated forewing. With the comparison especially of the antenna and venation, these new mastotermitids further increase our knowledge of the diversity and morphology of Mastotermitidae during the Mesozoic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

RESUMO O trabalho teve como objetivos coletar, identificar e quantificar as espécies de cupins que ocorrem em três áreas de savana submetidas à ação do fogo em diferentes épocas. O estudo foi realizado no município de Cuiabá, estado de Mato Grosso, no período de maio de 2004 a março de 2005. Foram amostradas três áreas distintas quanto à ação do fogo: área 1 - um ano sem ocorrência de fogo; área 2-10 anos sem ocorrência de fogo; área 3-17 anos sem a ocorrência de fogo. Foram utilizadas 20 armadilhas por área, modelo Termitrap. As armadilhas foram dispostas em forma de cruz, permanecendo enterradas no solo por 15 dias a cada período de coleta. As amostras foram levadas ao laboratório, onde foram triadas, quantificadas e acondicionadas em álcool 70%, para identificação. Foram coletados 167.316 indivíduos, distribuídos em 13 espécies, sendo a espécie Heterotermes tenuis a mais representativa quantitativamente nas áreas estudadas. Os cupins apresentaram preferência significativa pela área com 10 anos sem a ausência de fogo e o período de coleta no início das chuvas foi significativamente maior em quantidade de indivíduos, porém com menor quantidade de espécies.

Abstract Tissue-specific endopolyploidy is widespread among plants and animals and its role in organ development and function has long been investigated. In insects, the fat body cells of sexually mature females produce substantial amounts of egg yolk precursor proteins (vitellogenins) and exhibit high polyploid levels, which is considered crucial for boosting egg production. Termites are social insects with a reproductive division of labor, and the fat bodies of mature termite queens exhibit higher ploidy levels than those of other females. The fat bodies of mature termite queens are known to be histologically and cytologically specialized in protein synthesis. However, the relationship between such modifications and polyploidization remains unknown. In this study, we investigated the relationship among cell type, queen maturation, and ploidy levels in the fat body of the termite Reticulitermes speratus. We first confirmed that the termite fat body consists of two types of cells, that is, adipocytes, metabolically active cells, and urocytes, urate-storing cells. Our ploidy analysis using flow cytometry has shown that the fat bodies of actively reproducing queens had more polyploid cells than those of newly emerged and pre-reproductive queens, regardless of the queen phenotype (adult or neotenic type). Using image-based analysis, we found that not urocytes, but adipocytes became polyploid during queen differentiation and subsequent sexual maturation. These results suggest that polyploidization in the termite queen fat body is associated with sexual maturation and is regulated in a cell type-specific manner. Our study findings have provided novel insights into the development of insect fat bodies and provide a basis for future studies to understand the functional importance of polyploidy in the fat bodies of termite queens.

Termites are one of the most common pests that damage wood and other cellulosic materials. Although Africa has more varieties of termite species than any other continent, few entomological studies have been conducted in Gabon. Identifying termites poses significant difficulties for entomologists. The aim of this study was to evaluate the reliability and confirm the significance of MALDI-TOF MS in identifying fresh termites collected in equatorial Africa.A total of 108 termites were collected from 13 termite nests during a field mission in 2021 in Lekedi and Bongoville, Gabon. Termites were morphologically identified and subjected to MALDI-TOF MS, then molecular analyses using the COI and 12S rRNA genes.Four termite species were morphologically identified in this study: Pseudacanthotermes militaris, Macrotermes muelleri, Macrotermes nobilis, and Noditermes indoensis. However, when using molecular biology, only three species were identified, namely Macrotermes bellicosus, P. militaris, and N. indoensis, because the specimens initially identified as M. muelleri and M. nobilis were found to be M. bellicosus.The MALDI-TOF MS spectral profiles of the termites were all of good quality, with intra-species reproducibility and inter-species specificity. The spectra of 98 termites were blind tested against our upgraded database, which included the spectra of ten termite specimens. All tested spectra were correctly matched to their respective species, with log score values (LSVs) ranging from 1.649 to 2.592. The mean LSV was 2.215 ± 0.203, and the median was 2.241. However, 95.91% (94/98) of our spectra had LSVs above 1.8. This study demonstrates how a proteomic approach can overcome termites' molecular and morphological identification limitations and serve as a useful taxonomic tool.

The size–complexity rule posits that the evolution of larger cooperative groups should favour more division of labour. Examples include more cell types in larger multicellular organisms, and more polymorphic castes in larger eusocial colonies. However, a correlation between division of labour and group size may reflect a shared response of both traits to resource availability and/or profitability. Here, this possibility was addressed by investigating the evolution of sterile caste number (worker and soldier morphotypes) in termites, a major clade of eusocial insects in which the drivers of caste polymorphism are poorly understood. A novel dataset on 90 termite species was compiled from the published literature. The analysis showed that sterile caste number did increase markedly with colony size. However, after controlling for resource adaptations and phylogeny, there was no evidence for this relationship. Rather, sterile caste number increased with increasing nest–food separation and decreased with soil-feeding, through changes in worker (but not soldier) morphotype number. Further, colony size increased with nest–food separation, thus driving the false correlation between sterile caste number and colony size. These findings support adaptation to higher energy acquisition as key to the rise of complex insect societies, with larger size being a by-product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A comprehensive study was undertaken by collecting 51 samples of termites between July and October 2021 in three distinct zones within the Bhiwani district to analyze the termite diversity of the Bhiwani, Haryana region. The interplay of aeolian dunes characterizes the Bhiwani district’s ecological landscape. Nestled within the Indo-Gangetic alluvial plain, the Loharu Banger zone, and the ruggedness of the Aravalli Hills provide three distinct niches for termite diversity. The study sheds light on the intricate tapestry of termite life inhabiting these diverse ecological niches. Sample identification exhibited termites’ affiliations to two prominent families, Termitidae and Rhinotermitidae and three subfamilies, Amitermitinae, Macrotermitinae, and Coptotermitinae. Further, delving into the taxonomy unveiled a total of ten termite species inhabiting the various locations across the three ecological regions of Bhiwani district including Coptotermes sp., Microtermes mycophagus Desneux, Odontotermes gurdaspurensis Holmgren and Holmgren, Odontotermes redemanni (Wasmann), Odontotermes obesus, Coptotermes kishori, Amitermes belli (Desneux), Microcerotermes sp., Odontotermes guptai Roonwal and Bose, and Odontotermes vaishno Bose. Various diversity indices, including species richness, Simpson’s diversity index, Shannon-Weaver index, and Pielou’s evenness index, were used to determine the relative abundance and distribution of termite species within each zone. These indexes offer a comprehensive view of termite community structure and ecosystem resilience. This pioneering research marks the first-ever documented record of termite biodiversity in Bhiwani district, Haryana. In a region where the study of termites had hitherto been scarce, this endeavor opens doors to a deeper understanding of these soil-dwelling architects of nature. It lays the foundation for future research and pest management strategies in this dynamic ecosystem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tissue-specific endopolyploidy is widespread among plants and animals and its role in organ development and function has long been investigated. In insects, the fat body cells of sexually mature females produce substantial amounts of egg yolk precursor proteins (vitellogenins) and exhibit high polyploid levels, which is considered crucial for boosting egg production. Termites are social insects with a reproductive division of labor, and the fat bodies of mature termite queens exhibit higher ploidy levels than those of other females. The fat bodies of mature termite queens are known to be histologically and cytologically specialized in protein synthesis. However, the relationship between such modifications and polyploidization remains unknown. In this study, we investigated the relationship among cell type, queen maturation, and ploidy levels in the fat body of the termite Reticulitermes speratus. We first confirmed that the termite fat body consists of two types of cells, that is, adipocytes, metabolically active cells, and urocytes, urate-storing cells. Our ploidy analysis using flow cytometry has shown that the fat bodies of actively reproducing queens had more polyploid cells than those of newly emerged and pre-reproductive queens, regardless of the queen phenotype (adult or neotenic type). Using image-based analysis, we found that not urocytes, but adipocytes became polyploid during queen differentiation and subsequent sexual maturation. These results suggest that polyploidization in the termite queen fat body is associated with sexual maturation and is regulated in a cell type-specific manner. Our study findings have provided novel insights into the development of insect fat bodies and provide a basis for future studies to understand the functional importance of polyploidy in the fat bodies of termite queens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genus Prorhinotermes Silvestri (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae) is very rare in India, known by single species Prorhinotermes flavus. After three decades, a new species Prorhinotermes cotym Joseph, Amina and Mathew sp.nov, is described from the Kerala part of the Western Ghats, India. The genus Prorhinotermes is documented for the first time from Kerala. Morphological measurements of the soldiers and workers are given with suitable illustrations. Cytochrome oxidase II gene subunit was sequenced based on which phylogenetic analysis was carried out. A revised key to the species of Prorhinotermes (based on soldier caste) found in India with the species distribution map is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new genus and species of termite is described and figured from the Jinju Formation as Sclerotermes samsiki gen. et sp. nov. This new genus and species is left without family attribution because of the lack of information for body characters (e.g., tarsus configuration, pronotum shape). This new taxon differs from all other termites, inter alia, owing to its forewing with RA with four main branches and its forewing scale heavily sclerotised. This new species is the first termite described from the Jinju Formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Brazilian state of Acre is located in the southwestern Amazon and it is characterized by a humid tropical forest vegetation that covers plains and mountains. Up to this point, the composition of termite species in the state is not known. The aim of this study was to provide a checklist of termite species or recognizable taxonomic units for the state of Acre. Sampling was conducted through field expeditions at the Serra do Divisor National Park, Chandless State Park, Humaitá Forest Reserve, and Chico Mendes Environmental Park using a standardized rapid termite inventory protocol in the first two areas and active searching collections in the others, without a specific protocol. This study also included occurrence records published in the scientific literature. A total of 128 species and morphospecies of termites were found in Acre, distributed across 59 genera and four families. The most frequently occurring species in Acre was Heterotermes tenuis (Hagen, 1858). The study also identified six new species records for Brazil. The predominant feeding groups were soil-feeders and wood-feeders, as expected from data obtained from surveys in humid tropical forests. Despite the significant number of new records for Acre (112), it is concluded that a larger sampling effort is still required, as many areas of the state have not yet been studied for termites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Termites host diverse communities of gut microbes, including many bacterial lineages only found in this habitat. The bacteria endemic to termite guts are transmitted via two routes: a vertical route from parent colonies to daughter colonies and a horizontal route between colonies sometimes belonging to different termite species. The relative importance of both transmission routes in shaping the gut microbiota of termites remains unknown. Using bacterial marker genes derived from the gut metagenomes of 197 termites and one Cryptocercus cockroach, we show that bacteria endemic to termite guts are mostly transferred vertically. We identified 18 lineages of gut bacteria showing cophylogenetic patterns with termites over tens of millions of years. Horizontal transfer rates estimated for 16 bacterial lineages were within the range of those estimated for 15 mitochondrial genes, suggesting that horizontal transfers are uncommon and vertical transfers are the dominant transmission route in these lineages. Some of these associations probably date back more than 150 million years and are an order of magnitude older than the cophylogenetic patterns between mammalian hosts and their gut bacteria. Our results suggest that termites have cospeciated with their gut bacteria since first appearing in the geological record. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this review, we summarize the 22 exocrine glands hitherto described for termites (Isoptera), highlighting their distribution, morphological features, and likely function. The secretion from such glands displays a very important role in termite communication, but is also attributed to many other activities performed by these insects, including defense, building, and foraging, as well as physiological processes such as the synthesis of digestive enzymes, and antiseptic and lubricant compounds. Here, glands are divided into those associated with termite mouthparts and other head appendages, tegumentary glands with epithelial arrangement, those related to the reproductive apparatus, and glands which do not fit into these divisions. The exocrine systems in termites may be composed of classes 1, 2, and 3 secretory cells, which differ in how the glandular secretion is released. Moreover, they may exhibit a varied composition of secretory cell classes. Different glands may be involved in specific tasks and therefore produce specific compounds, although there are cases in which the same content is secreted by different glands, suggesting a functional plasticity. The chemical nature of these secretions and their role are well known for some glands, such as the frontal, salivary, tergal, and sternal ones. On the other hand, such aspects remain speculative or completely unknown for other glands. The number of termite exocrine glands is extremely low when compared to those described for eusocial Hymenoptera, and is a likely consequence of the higher diversity of species and chemical communication in the latter group. Moreover, vibroacoustic signals represent an important type of communication in termites. Further studies are encouraged to provide new insights into the occurrence and function of the exocrine systems in termites and how they modulate the different activities displayed by them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In social insects, collective behavior is regulated by substances secreted by various glands of different members of society. In this study, we investigate whether salivary glands of the arboreal termite Nasutitermes corniger (Motschulsky) (Isoptera: Termitidae) contain substances that regulate the intensity of foraging behavior. Foraging arenas of N. corniger nests maintained under laboratory conditions received the addition of two filter paper substrates, one impregnated with salivary gland extract from third‐instar small workers (SW3) (treatment) and the other impregnated with distilled water (control). A similar experiment was conducted using salivary gland extract from fourth‐instar large workers (LW4). Occurrences of initial exploration, mass recruitment, and substrate gnawing behaviors, as well as numbers of recruited and gnawing workers, were recorded. There was a higher rate of mass recruitment to treated substrates than to the control (SW3: 80 vs. 25%; LW4: 90 vs. 25%). Gnawing behavior also occurred at higher rates on treated substrates (SW3: 95 vs. 35%; LW4: 100 vs. 45%). The number of workers recruited to and gnawing on treated substrate was significantly higher than the number of workers recruited to and gnawing on control substrate. The higher rates of worker recruitment, as well as the higher numbers of recruited and gnawing workers, show that salivary glands of last‐instar workers contain substances with arresting and/or phagostimulating pheromonal actions or substances that release compounds with these properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insect spermathecae play a crucial role in sperm storage and maintenance prior to egg fertilization. Within eusocial insects, this structure is well studied in the Hymenoptera, whose queens copulate during a short period early in life and store sperm for up to decades. Within Isoptera, sperm storage and maintenance inside the spermatheca are poorly understood, especially due to the presence of a sperm‐providing king. Here, we compared the morphometric and morphophysiological features of the spermathecae of virgin and mated queens of the invasive termite Coptotermes gestroi (Wasmann) (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae). The spermatheca comprises a finger‐shaped reservoir divided into two regions and a duct limited by a narrow transition. The superficial spermatheca area, as well as the luminal area, increase significantly after insemination, even among queens whose reproductive activity was reduced, suggesting that sperm storage continues during such conditions. The secretion of proteins and polysaccharides into the spermathecal lumen was a remarkable feature for both virgin and 4‐year‐old queens, although the concentration of the secreted content increased in the latter group. It suggests that spermatheca activation occurs before pairing, but its secretory activity intensifies to nourish and provide energy for the stored spermatozoa. Ultrastructure of the spermathecal epithelium showed a bicellular unit, composed of a secretory cell and associated canal cells. Secretory vesicles of various electron densities were observed next to the receiving canal of the secretory cells in both virgin and 2‐year‐old queens. Nevertheless, strongly electron‐dense vesicles were only recorded for mated queens, which were associated with the increasing synthesis of proteins. The occurrence of rough endoplasmic reticulum and richness of mitochondria reinforces the protein synthesis and transport of contents towards the spermathecal lumen. In conclusion, the spermatheca of C. gestroi undergoes morphometric and physiological changes after mating, and further analysis may provide insights into the chemical nature of the spermathecal secretion prior to and after this event. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In termites with a true worker caste, the development pattern splits up from early developmental stages: primary reproductives develop through the nymphal line, whereas workers and soldiers follow the apterous developmental line. In some species, such as Cavitermes tuberosus Emerson (Isoptera: Termitidae, Termitinae), secondary reproductives (or neotenics) may also develop through the nymphal line from a transitional stage called aspirant. Aspirants originate mostly from automictic parthenogenetic reproduction. Therefore, C. tuberosus queens originate from sexual (primary queens) or parthenogenetic (neotenic queens) reproduction. A comparison of these two queen castes offers the possibility to better understand core molecular underpinnings of caste development and plasticity in termites. We investigated these molecular mechanisms by using high‐throughput Illumina RNA sequencing of pooled individuals. We first assembled the de novo reference transcriptome of C. tuberosus, and then identified the transcripts consistently co‐expressed across castes, sexes, and two alternative routes to female reproduction. Cavitermes tuberosus final transcriptome had 130 874 transcripts, N50 of 3398, and total length of 213 549 184 bp. We found that female reproductive maturation was characterized by gene expression down‐regulation: primary queens expressed fewer transcripts overall and had the greatest number of down‐regulated transcripts when compared to all other castes. In both secondary and primary queens, biological processes involved in muscle development and contraction, flight, and olfactory learning were enriched in the down‐regulated gene cluster. In contrast, processes related to reproductive development, insulin receptor signaling pathway, isoprenoid biosynthesis, and multiple metabolic processes were enriched among up‐regulated genes in primary queens. Finally, we found that 17% of all transcripts (21852) were differently co‐expressed when females from sexual and parthenogenetic origins were compared, even though the expression profile of core reproductive‐related gene clusters showed a similar trend in all reproductive females despite their origin. Our findings fit the genomic imprinting model predictions of a maternal effect that commonly regulates the expression of core reproductive genes in females from parthenogenetic and non‐parthenogenetic origins, whereas the expression of non‐reproductive genes varies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Termites are well known for being the most destructive pests of household commodities as well as agricultural crops around the globe. The termite fauna (Isoptera) has about 2650 described species worldwide. Several species are the pests of crops and cause damage to wood structures. Methods: In the present study, 29 specimens of termites collected from different localities of the Riyadh region were identified using mitochondrial gene cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) sequence. COI gene was PCR amplified using universal primers (LCO 1490 and HCO 2198). MEGA7 software was used for phylogenetic tree construction which showed that all 29 specimens grouped together in a single clade indicated close relatedness of all specimens. Results: All the obtained sequences were submitted into Genbank database and accession numbers were obtained. Phylogenetic analysis showed that all specimens of present research grouped together into a single monophyletic clade, were confirmed to be highly closely related to one another, and proved to be members of the same species. Pairwise nucleotide sequence divergence analysis showed that there was less divergence among all specimens ranging from 0% to 7.8%. Sequence analysis revealed the confirmed precise identification of 29 samples of Anacanthotermes ochraceus with COI barcode analysis. Conclusions: Molecular data analysis has confirmed morphological identification of all 29 studied samples of A. ochraceus. However, this technology offers strong support for identification of cryptic species which are difficult to identify on the basis of morphological features. Further studies of complete mitogenome can be helpful for accurate identification of termites at species level.

Cryptotermes brevis (Walker, 1853) (Kalotermitidae), commonly called the West Indian drywood termite, is an important structural pest in many parts of the world. Almost all records of C. brevis come from timber or furniture inside human structures. Although originally described for Jamaica, this species appears to be native to the coastal desert area of Peru and Chile, where it commonly occurs outdoors in the dead wood of both living and dead trees in riparian habitats and irrigated agricultural areas. Here, we report outdoor records of C. brevis from an agricultural habitat at the western edge of the Sahara Desert, an area climatically similar to their native range in South America. This constitutes the first outdoor report of the invasive termite in the Old World. In Dakhla, Moroccan Sahara, we found these termites living in the dead wood of a Brazilian peppertree (Schinus terebinthifolia Raddi) and the hollow stems of giant reeds (Arundo donax L.). In North Africa, C. brevis is otherwise known only from structural timbers in northern Egypt. Whether this termite become a significant pest in North Africa remains to be seen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was carried out inside Durgapur Government College campus to enlist the diversity of termites by direct search method. A total of six different termite species (Odontotermes feae, O. horni, O. gurdaspurensis, O. redemanni, Microtermes obesi and Coptotermes heimi) were recorded during the present study. Ant species and termites were found to be closely associated in sharing the habitable space inside the campus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Termites are usually associated with the decomposition of dead wood, although the diets of many species encompass other resources such as cactus, humus, feces, carcasses and lichens. Some components of their diets, however, may be associated with non-nutritional functions. The termite Constrictotermes cyphergaster has a varied diet, with dead wood being the main item consumed, but with lichens as secondary resources. The question concerning why lichens are consumed appears complicated, and needs careful study in a step-wise analysis. The present study was designed to examine and understand the effects of usnic acid, a secondary lichen metabolite, on the growth of bacteria associated with the gut microbiota of C. cyphergaster. Our results showed significant control of termite gut bacteria by usnic acid as compared with a treatment without it. Thus usnic acid appears to help the termite, possibly by controlling gut microbiota and avoiding diseases associated with entomopathogenic bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Termites are dominant animals of tropical terrestrial ecosystems. Their success is due to their eusocial organization as well as their ability to digest dead plant tissues. While being extremely abundant, the termite diet is poor in crucial nutrients, such as fatty acids. Linoleic acid (LA) is a precursor for many vital biomolecules, and most animals depend on its dietary supply. Termites count among the exceptions known to produce LA de novo, presumably via the action of an unknown Δ12 fatty acyl desaturase (FAD) introducing the second double bond into monounsaturated oleic acid. Here, we search for the evolutionary origin of LA biosynthesis in termites. To this end, we compile the repertoire of FAD homologs from 57 species of termites and their closest relatives, the cockroaches, analyze FAD phylogeny, and identify a potential Δ12 FAD branch, which arose through duplication of a likely Δ9 FAD. We functionally characterize both paralogs and identify the Δ9 activity in the ancestral FAD-A1a and the Δ12 activity responsible for LA biosynthesis in FAD-A1b. Through the combination of homology modeling and site-directed mutagenesis, we pinpoint structural features possibly contributing to the distinct functions, regiospecificities, and substrate preferences of the two enzymes. We confirm the presence of both paralogs in all 36 studied species of the Blattoidea lineage (Blattidae, Lamproblattidae, Cryptocercidae, and termites) and conclude that we identified an evolutionary event important for the ecological success of termites, which took place in their cockroach ancestors roughly 160 My and remained conserved throughout termite diversification into 3,000 extant species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psammotermes allocerus Silvestri, 1908 is the only described species representing the genus Psammotermes Desneux, 1902 in Southern Africa. The large geographical range of this subterranean termite covers both summer and winter rainfall regimes. Deadwood is the preferred food when available, but in more arid habitats, both live and dead grasses form the major dietary component. Along the Namib Desert margins, the species' localised herbivory creates circular bare patches known as fairy circles. For a regional phylogeographic study of this species, we sampled 65 sand termite populations within drier parts of Namibia, South Africa, and Angola. Based on combined molecular and ecological data, we found considerable genetic diversification within P. allocerus. Analyses of two mitochondrial markers (COI, COII), including a Bayesian inference tree, haplotype analysis and genetic distances suggest a delineation into seven highly differentiated genetic groups. The 'Succulent Karoo' group is additionally characterised by unique features of the royal chamber, nest and tunnel system. In conclusion, our data suggest that P. allocerus should be not regarded as one species but as a species complex. Termites of each analysed group 'Northern Namib', 'Western Kalahari Basin', 'Nama', 'Southwestern Kalahari', 'East Gariep', 'Southern Namib' and 'Succulent Karoo' should be considered as distinct species. The species name P. allocerus should be used for termites of the 'Succulent Karoo'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The ecology and evolution of phoretic mites and termites have not been well studied. In particular, it is unknown whether the specific relationship between mites and termites is commensal or parasitic. High phoretic mite densities have often been found to occur in weak termite colonies, suggesting that the relationship is closer to that of parasitism than commensalism. Results To examine this, Coptotermes formosanus was used as a carrier, and Acarus farris as the phoretic mite. We used video recordings to observe termite social immunity behaviors and bioassay to examine termite fitness. Our results showed that the attachment of the mite on the termite can enhance termite social immunity behaviors like alarm vibration and grooming frequency while decreasing the duration of individual grooming episodes in phoretic mites. Further, A. farris phoresy led to a 22.91% reduction in termite abdomen volume and a 3.31-fold increase in termite mortality. Conclusions When termites groom more frequently, the consequence is short duration of grooming bouts. This may be indicative of a trade-off which provides suggestive evidence that frequent social behaviors may cost termites energy. And this caused phoretic behavior hastened termites’ death, and helped propagate the population of mites feeding on dead termites. So, it provides a case for phoresy being a precursor to parasitism, and the specific relationship between A. farris and C. formosanus is closer to parasitism than to commensalism.

Abstract Background Termites primarily feed on lignocellulose or soil in association with specific gut microbes. The functioning of the termite gut microbiota is partly understood in a handful of wood-feeding pest species but remains largely unknown in other taxa. We intend to fill this gap and provide a global understanding of the functional evolution of termite gut microbiota. Results We sequenced the gut metagenomes of 145 samples representative of the termite diversity. We show that the prokaryotic fraction of the gut microbiota of all termites possesses similar genes for carbohydrate and nitrogen metabolisms, in proportions varying with termite phylogenetic position and diet. The presence of a conserved set of gut prokaryotic genes implies that essential nutritional functions were present in the ancestor of modern termites. Furthermore, the abundance of these genes largely correlated with the host phylogeny. Finally, we found that the adaptation to a diet of soil by some termite lineages was accompanied by a change in the stoichiometry of genes involved in important nutritional functions rather than by the acquisition of new genes and pathways. Conclusions Our results reveal that the composition and function of termite gut prokaryotic communities have been remarkably conserved since termites first appeared ~ 150 million years ago. Therefore, the “world’s smallest bioreactor” has been operating as a multipartite symbiosis composed of termites, archaea, bacteria, and cellulolytic flagellates since its inception. Video Abstract

Exocrine glands are important mediators of communication in eusocial insects and the description of novel glands reflects the complex context in which these animals live. Here we revisit the head-associated glands in workers of the Neotropical termite Cornitermes cumulans through histological analysis and describe a novel gland for this caste, the intramandibular glands. This structure is located underneath the cuticle of the dorsodistal part of each mandible. The glands showed an epithelial arrangement, but the cytological morphology is complex, comprising classes I and III of secretory cells. The present data highlight the importance of the intramandibular glands in the worker caste and demonstrate different morphology of these glands in Isoptera, probably related to the specialized function of the castes. Features of active glandular activity were also observed in the mandibular, labral, and salivary glands of these workers. Despite the intramandibular glands being also found in workers of other social insects, their occurrence in termites was restricted to the soldier caste of Machadotermes. Even so, their cytological structure differs from those of C. cumulans workers. The likely function of the worker intramandibular glands is discussed considering the separate-nest life type present by C. cumulans and tasks performed by workers. The chemical nature of the secretion and the occurrence of the glands in other termite taxa still require further investigation., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: Acrylamide-based bait has super water absorption making it highly attractive to subterranean termites that are lured by wood with high water content. This study investigated the control efficiency of these baits on subterranean termites. In particular, we evaluated the water-absorption capacity, attractiveness to subterranean termites, and control efficiency of these baits on subterranean termites through wooden blocks (Populus deltoides and three types of particleboards)., Results: The results indicated a substantial water absorption capacity of acrylamide (70.6%; control: 14.8%) and a strong attraction for feeding subterranean termites (P. deltoides: 198 highest; 81 lowest subterranean termites individuals; combination of neem leaves and walnut shells: 168 highest; 36 lowest subterranean termites individuals). When acrylamide was combined with boric acid at the highest concentration, it resulted in the lowest wood consumption rates (P. deltoides: 24.1%; control: 63.8%, combination of neem leaves and walnut shells: 32.5%; control: 62.1%)., Conclusions: In conclusion, this research supports the commercial viability of employing innovative acrylamide-based toxic baits and particleboards for subterranean termite management. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry., (© 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.)

Effects of the extract obtained from the Dieffinbachia picta leaves were examined on the termite workers of Microcerotermes diversus using four treatments (T) including 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% by spraying. The results showed mortality rate in the termite workers at different periods of time. T100% recorded the highest mortality rates (8%, 8.67% and 9%) after 24, 48 and 72 hours respectively, while the minimum mortality in the insect workers was recorded at T25% as 1.7%, 2.3% and 3.7% after 24, 48 and 72 hours respectively. According to results of the present study, there is a possible advantage of the toxic properties of D. picta leaves as an alternative and effective plant pesticides for combating the termite of M. diversus.

Termites are eusocial insects known to use a variety of pheromones in tasks necessary for maintenance of their societies. As such, olfaction and pheromone communication in termites has been an object of intense study; trail-following pheromones (TFPs) and sex-pairing pheromones (SPPs), for example, have been identified in many termite species. In contrast, the molecular basis of olfactory detection is understudied in the group. Here, we present chemosensory genes of three species of termites belonging to three distinct lineages, Neotermes cubanus (Kalotermitidae), Prorhinotermes simplex (Rhinotermitidae), and Inquilinitermes inquilinus (Termitidae). Using antennal transcriptome screening of termite workers, we identified the chemosensory genes, which allowed us to perform phylogenetic analysis. We found a comparatively large repertoires of odorant receptors (ORs), gustatory receptors (GRs), ionotropic receptors (IRs), odorant binding proteins (OBPs), chemosensory proteins (CSPs), and sensory neuron membrane proteins (SNMPs). The evolutionary analysis of termite chemosensory genes revealed Isoptera-specific expansions with a 1:1 orthologous pattern, indicating the existence of conserved olfactory functions. Our findings on basal eusocial insects will further enhance our understanding of the molecular underpinnings of eusociality and the evolution of olfactory communication in termites.

Little is known about the phylogeography of termites in the Neotropical region. Here, we explored the genetic patterns and phylogeographical processes in the evolutionary history of Nasutitermes kemneri, an endemic termite of the South American diagonal of open formations (DOF) formed by the Chaco, Cerrado, and Caatinga phytogeographic domains. We sampled 60 individuals across the three domains of the DOF, and using the mitochondrial genes 16S, COI, and COII, as well as the nuclear gene ITS, evaluated the genetic diversity and divergence time of the populations, along with their genetic structure. The results show a strong genetic and spatial structure within the samples, evidencing the existence of two well-differentiated genetic groups: the Northeastern and the Southwestern populations, which diverged about 2.5 Mya, during the Pliocene-Pleistocene boundary. The Northeastern population, which encompasses Caatinga and northern portions of Cerrado, has an intricate structure and seems to have suffered repetitive retraction-expansion events due to climactic fluctuations during the Quaternary. The Southwestern population, which ranges from central-south Cerrado to the northeast peripherical portions of the Chaco, displays a star-shaped haplotype structure, indicating that this region may have acted as a refugia during interglacial periods.

Asymmetrical snapping mandibles have evolved several times in termites. In the Neotropics, asymmetrical snapping mandibles are found in soldiers of four genera: Neocapritermes, Planicapritermes, Cornicapritermes and Dihoplotermes. Here, I describe Schievitermes globicornis, new genus and species, from French Guiana. This genus is characterized by an absence of a frontal prominence and slightly asymmetrical mandibles in the soldier caste. The morphology and anatomy of the worker reveal a wood-based diet, and suggest that Schievitermes, Planicapritermes and Neocapritermes constitute a monophyletic group, which is consistent with mtDNA data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: We present a systematic review of the biology of the termite Constrictotermes cyphergaster and its relationships with guests in South America, addressing issues concerning the research knowledge that has been accumulated and the gaps that still need to be filled regarding this termite, as well as its relationships with other organisms and with the environment. Termites have global distributions and play important roles in most ecosystems, often with high nest densities and interesting associations with other organisms. Constrictotermes cyphergaster, is a termite endemic to South America, widely distributed and very conspicuous, and has therefore been considered a good model for filling in gaps in general termite ecology and their relationships with other organisms (e.g., termitophily). A systematic review (content and bibliometric analyses) was used to gather all published scientific knowledge related to C. cyphergaster as well as to observe trends, verify gaps, and direct new perspectives for future studies of this species. We identified 54 studies, of which more than 50% were published in the last five years (28 articles). The majority of the articles investigated the relationships between C. cyphergaster and macroorganisms (44.4%), followed by specific aspects of its biology (25.9%). The collaboration network revealed that links between researchers are still limited and modular, but trending topics have changed over time. Additionally, there are differences in the aims of the studies being carried out in the Caatinga and Cerrado domains, with some information focusing only on one of those environments. Our results show that some gaps in the biology and ecology of C. cyphergaster remain to be explored, although collaborative efforts between researchers open opportunities for suggesting future studies that would make relevant contributions to the general knowledge of termites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Termites are one of the most relevant groups for recycling nutrients and keeping the flow of energy in ecosystems. Although their role as lignocellulose decomposers is the focus of studies, they also act as dung recyclers, but their importance in this process is poorly understood. Here we performed manipulation experiments to determine dung removal by termites in forest remnants and cattle pastures in a fragmented Atlantic Forest landscape. We used wire bags of different mesh sizes placed along transects in three forest fragments and pastures for 10 days to compare the contribution of termites and other coprophagous macrodetritivores to dung removal. Our results indicated that termites removed more dung in pastures than in the forest fragments. In addition, dung beetle exclusion significantly reduced the percentage of dung removal within forest fragments, but not on pastures, indicating termites are important dung recyclers in pastures.

We present an open (publicly available) and updatable database of the karyotypes of Blattodea which is available at http://web.natur.cuni.cz/zoologie/arthropods/blattodeadatabase/index.html. This database currently contains data on chromosome numbers and sex chromosome systems for 355 (209 cockroaches and 146 termites) cytogenetically and/or geographically distinct populations of 229 species (138 cockroaches and 91 termites). When available, data on chromosome morphology and fundamental number are also included. As this summary of the data on Blattodea cytogenetics follows current taxonomy and phylogeny it enabled us to discuss hypotheses on karyotype evolution. We also point out some cytogenetically interesting phenomena such as extensive karyotype differentiation at low taxonomic levels in some lineages and the change from the X0 sex chromosome system, which is present in cockroaches, to systems with multiple neo-sex chromosomes, present in termites. We encourage the use of modern cytogenetic methods in research on Blattodea cytogenetics to uncover more detailed mechanisms of karyotype evolution in this insect order. We also provide a brief summary of the history of cytogenetic research in Blattodea.

Termites feed on vegetal matter at various stages of decomposition. Lineages of wood- and soil-feeding termites are distributed across terrestrial ecosystems located between 45°N and 45°S of latitude, a distribution they acquired through many transoceanic dispersal events. While wood-feeding termites often live in the wood on which they feed and are efficient at dispersing across oceans by rafting, soil-feeders are believed to be poor dispersers. Therefore, their distribution across multiple continents requires an explanation. Here, we reconstructed the historical biogeography and the ancestral diet of termites using mitochondrial genomes and δ13C and δ15N stable isotope measurements obtained from 324 termite samples collected in five biogeographic realms. Our biogeographic models showed that wood-feeders are better at dispersing across oceans than soil-feeders, further corroborated by the presence of wood-feeders on remote islands devoid of soil-feeders. However, our ancestral range reconstructions identified 33 dispersal events among biogeographic realms, 18 of which were performed by soil-feeders. Therefore, despite their lower dispersal ability, soil-feeders performed several transoceanic dispersals that shaped the distribution of modern termites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Termites primarily feed on lignocellulose or soil in association with specific gut microbes. The functioning of the termite gut microbiota is partly understood in a handful of wood-feeding pest species but remains largely unknown in other taxa. We intend to fill this gap and provide a global understanding of the functional evolution of termite gut microbiota. Results: We sequenced the gut metagenomes of 145 samples representative of the termite diversity. We show that the prokaryotic fraction of the gut microbiota of all termites possesses similar genes for carbohydrate and nitrogen metabolisms, in proportions varying with termite phylogenetic position and diet. The presence of a conserved set of gut prokaryotic genes implies that essential nutritional functions were present in the ancestor of modern termites. Furthermore, the abundance of these genes largely correlated with the host phylogeny. Finally, we found that the adaptation to a diet of soil by some termite lineages was accompanied by a change in the stoichiometry of genes involved in important nutritional functions rather than by the acquisition of new genes and pathways. Conclusions: Our results reveal that the composition and function of termite gut prokaryotic communities have been remarkably conserved since termites first appeared ~ 150 million years ago. Therefore, the "world's smallest bioreactor" has been operating as a multipartite symbiosis composed of termites, archaea, bacteria, and cellulolytic flagellates since its inception. 6ZEqoadJZKDhT5Ju82dN1j Video Abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modern metagenomic approaches enable the effective discovery of novel viruses in previously unexplored organisms. Termites are significant ecosystem converters and influencers. As with the majority of tropical forest insects, termites are studied insufficiently, and termite virome remains especially understudied. Here, we studied the virome of lichenophagous and mycophagous termites (Hospitalitermes bicolor, Macrotermes carbonarius and Odontotermes wallonensis) collected in the Cat Tien National Park (Vietnam). We assembled four full genomes of novel viruses related to Solemoviridae, Lispiviridae, Polycipiviridae and Kolmioviridae. We also found several contigs with relation to Chuviridae and Deltaflexiviridae that did not correspond to complete virus genomes. All the novel viruses clustered phylogenetically with previously identified viruses of the termites. Deltaflexi-like contigs were identified in the fungi-cultivating M. carbonarius and showed homology with viruses recently discovered in the edible basidiomycete mushrooms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutritional ecology of ropical ecosystems like Neotropical savannas, which are of high conservation concern, is understudied. Sodium is essential for heterotrophs but availability often falls short relative to plant consumer requirements. Savanna plant consumers like ants and termites should be sodium-limited due to high temperatures, nutrient-poor soils, and lack of oceanic sodium deposition. We tested the hypothesis that Neotropical savanna ants and termites are sodium-limited. Termites were tested by supplementing 0.25 m2 plots with H2O (control), 0.1%, 0.5%, or 1.0% NaCl and measuring termite presence and artificial substrate mass loss after 1 week. Ants were tested by collecting ants that recruited to H2O (control), 0.1%, 0.5%, and 1.0% NaCl and 1.0%, 10%, and 20% sugar baits on paired diurnal–nocturnal transects. Termites were 16 times more likely to occur on 1% NaCl than H2O plots and wood-feeding termites were most frequent. However, the decomposition rate did not differ among treatments. Ant bait use increased with increasing NaCl concentration and 1% NaCl usage was similar to sugar bait usage. Ants were 3.7 times more active nocturnally than diurnally, but contrary to predictions bait type (water, sugar or NaCl) usage did not differ between day and night. Together, these results provide strong evidence of sodium limitation in Neotropical savannas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Sex‐determination systems often show remarkable diversity in upstream signals, although downstream genes are broadly conserved. Therefore, the downstream genes have been investigated in various taxa, but the most upstream signals determining sex in insects have been well‐described mainly in model organisms, including fruit flies and honey bees, and not in hemimetabolous insects such as termites. Identification of sex‐linked genetic markers in termites is important to the survey of primary sex‐determination signals. Here, we report male‐specific alleles at the microsatellite locus NK12‐1 in the Ryukyu drywood termite Neotermes sugioi (Kalotermitidae). This study provides the third example of a genetic marker linked with sexual phenotype in termites, which is a small but important step to elucidate the evolutionary process of the sex‐determination system in termites.

Abstract Background Termites are among the most successful insect lineages on the globe and are responsible for providing numerous ecosystem services. They mainly feed on wood and other plant material at different stages of humification. Lignocellulose is often a principal component of such plant diet, and termites largely rely on their symbiotic microbiota and associated enzymes to decompose their food efficiently. While lower termites and their gut flagellates were given larger scientific attention in the past, the gut lignocellulolytic bacteria of higher termites remain less explored. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the structure and function of gut prokaryotic microbiomes from 11 higher termite genera representative of Syntermitinae, Apicotermitinae, Termitidae and Nasutitermitinae subfamilies, broadly grouped into plant fibre- and soil-feeding termite categories. Results Despite the different compositional structures of the studied termite gut microbiomes, reflecting well the diet and host lineage, we observed a surprisingly high functional congruency between gut metatranscriptomes from both feeding groups. The abundance of transcripts encoding for carbohydrate active enzymes as well as expression and diversity profiles of assigned glycoside hydrolase families were also similar between plant fibre- and soil-feeding termites. Yet, dietary imprints highlighted subtle metabolic differences specific to each feeding category. Roughly, 0.18% of de novo re-constructed gene transcripts were shared between the different termite gut microbiomes, making each termite gut a unique reservoir of genes encoding for potentially industrially applicable enzymes, e.g. relevant to biomass degradation. Taken together, we demonstrated the functional equivalence in microbial populations across different termite hosts. Conclusions Our results provide valuable insight into the bacterial component of the termite gut system and significantly expand the inventory of termite prokaryotic genes participating in the deconstruction of plant biomass. Video Abstract

The use of nonrepellent liquid termiticides against subterranean termites has long relied on the assumption that foraging termites in soils could transfer toxicants to nestmates to achieve population control. However, their dose-dependent lethal time can lead to rapid termite mortality in proximity of the treatment, triggering secondary repellency. The current study characterizes the dynamic nature of the "death zone," i.e., the area adjacent to soil termiticides that termites would avoid owing the accumulation of cadavers. Using whole subterranean termite laboratory colonies of Coptotermes gestroi (Wasmann) with 3 × 15 m foraging distances, fipronil was implemented at 1.5 m, 7.5 m, or 12.5 m away from colony central nests, emulating a corrective action against an termite structural infestation. For treatments at 7.5 m and 12.5 m, the death zone stabilized at an average of ~2.56 m away from the treatment after 40 d post-treatment, and colonies suffered as little as 1.5% mortality by 200 d post-treatment. Colonies located 1.5 m away from the treatment minimized the death zone to ~1.1 m and suffered as little as 23.5% mortality. Mortality only occurred within the first few days of treatment from initial exposure, as the rapid emergence of the death zone negated further transfer effects among nestmates over time. In some cases, foraging termites were trapped within the infested structure. While technically nonrepellent, fipronil becomes functionally repellent from the rapid mortality onset near the treatment. Even if diligently implemented to successfully protect structures, surrounding termite colonies are minimally impacted by fipronil soil treatments., (© The Author(s) 2024. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Entomological Society of America.)

Aging workers of the termite Neocapritermes taracua can defend their colony by sacrificing themselves by body rupture, mixing the externally stored blue laccase BP76 with hydroquinones to produce a sticky liquid rich in toxic benzoquinones. Here, we describe the crystal structure of BP76 isolated from N. taracua in its native form. The structure reveals several stabilization strategies, including compact folding, glycosylation, and flexible loops with disulfide bridges and tight dimer interface. The remarkable stability of BP76 maintains its catalytic activity in solid state during the lifespan of N. taracua workers, providing old workers with an efficient defensive weapon to protect their colony., Competing Interests: Declaration of interests The authors declare no competing interests., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The western drywood termite, Incisitermes minor (Hagen), causes significant economic damage to wood structures in the United States of America, especially California. When infestation is not widespread, localized insecticide injections may be useful for remedial control. However, the extensive gallery structure of drywood termites and their tendency to aggregate at specific parts of the galleries can impact the efficacy of localized insecticide injection. Chemicals that attract termites from a distance may improve the localized insecticide injection by increasing the number of termites contacting the insecticide residues. Two volatile terpenes, α-pinene and β-pinene, commonly found in many coniferous timber trees, were applied to artificial termite galleries to determine if termites were attracted from their original aggregation site. Furthermore, we examined if adding these pinenes would improve the overall efficacy of some insecticide products for drywood termite control. Behavioral assay results showed that the treatment with pinenes increased the likelihood that drywood termites would leave their original aggregation site and contact the treated part of the gallery. When tested with the pesticide products applied in a small area away from the termite aggregation, β-pinene significantly accelerated the time course of mortality for the aqueous fipronil. The efficacy of disodium octaborate tetrahydrate dust was not influenced by the addition of pinenes. Implications for drywood termite management and future research directions are discussed., (© The Author(s) 2024. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Entomological Society of America. All rights reserved. For commercial re-use, please contact reprints@oup.com for reprints and translation rights for reprints. All other permissions can be obtained through our RightsLink service via the Permissions link on the article page on our site—for further information please contact journals.permissions@oup.com.)

Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) have received immense interest lately as a potential nanomaterial because of their excellent mechanical and biological properties. This investigation aims to formulate a composite coating made of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), CNCs, and a methanolic extract from the dried leaves and fruit of the fig tree (Ficus auriculata) (FAE). A sequential procedure to get CNCs included alkaline and acid hydrolysis, sonication, and suitable methods for purification. Analytical techniques like X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to study the CNC-loaded films. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) of composites revealed superior thermal stability of the CNC-reinforced films versus control, evident from higher degradation temperatures, indicating desirable environmental resistance of proposed coatings for wood surfaces. The termite control was made more effective through synergistic use of a combination of CNCs, PVA, and FAE with proven insecticidal properties. The composite material was examined for its anti-termite resistance and termite mortality rate, and demonstrated that when used together, CNCs, PVA, and FAE were collectively and synergistically more effective at keeping termites away. The findings of this study demonstrate that the evolved composite could be used to develop anti-termite products that are environmentally benign and respond well. Synthesized composites also demonstrated significant antibacterial activity. Among all films, a combination of 0.7 % extract in PVA displayed excellent results with 26 and 28 mm diameter for growth inhibition zone for Gram-positive bacteria whereas 26 mm for both negative bacterial strains. The findings suggest a potential use of this composite as a sustainable, environmentally resistant, and eco-friendly alternative for termite/bacterial control in various building materials and wood preservation applications., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare the following financial interests/personal relationships which may be considered as potential competing interests: Gaurav Manik reports financial support was provided by Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education. Gaurav Manik reports a relationship with Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education that includes: funding grants. Gaurav Manik has patent #IN202311033227 pending to Tulika Sharma. No known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper. If there are other authors, they declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)