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The symbiosis between termites and their hindgut protists is mutually obligate and vertically inherited. It was established by the late Jurassic in the cockroach ancestors of termites as they transitioned to wood feeding. Since then, protist symbionts have been transmitted from host generation to host generation by proctodeal trophallaxis (anal feeding). The protists belong to multiple lineages within the eukaryotic superphylum Metamonada. Most of these lineages have evolved large cells with complex morphology, unlike the non‐termite‐associated Metamonada. The species richness and taxonomic composition of symbiotic protist communities varies widely across termite lineages, especially within the deep‐branching clade Teletisoptera. In general, closely related termites tend to harbour closely related protists, and deep‐branching termites tend to harbour deep‐branching protists, reflecting their broad‐scale co‐diversification. A closer view, however, reveals a complex distribution of protist lineages across hosts. Some protist taxa are common, some are rare, some are widespread, and some are restricted to a single host family or genus. Some protist taxa can be found in only a few, distantly related, host species. Thus, the long history of co‐diversification in this symbiosis has been complicated by lineage‐specific loss of symbionts, transfer of symbionts from one host lineage to another, and by independent diversification of the symbionts relative to their hosts. This review aims to introduce the biology of this important symbiosis and serve as a gateway to the diversity and systematics literature for both termites and protists. A searchable database with all termite‐protist occurrence records and taxonomic references is provided as a supplementary file to encourage and facilitate new research in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Black-spotted Paddy Frog (Micryletta nigromaculata) was recently discovered from northern Vietnam. Due to its restricted distribution in limestone karst forests and habitat degradation, the endemic species has been listed as "Endangered" in the IUCN Red List. However, knowledge about the natural history of this species is scarce, including data on its dietary ecology. Recent field surveys revealed new populations of M. nigromaculata occurring in Son La Province, northwestern Vietnam based on morphological analysis. Using the stomach-flushing method, we analyzed stomach contents of 45 individuals (21 males and 24 females) from a total of 52 captured frogs because stomachs of six males and one female (13.5%) were empty. The food spectrum of M. nigromaculata comprises 12 types with a total of 691 prey items (687 invertebrate items and four unidentified items), belonging to six insect orders, larvae and Araneae. Similar to other species of the family Microhylidae, M. nigromaculata is also identified as an ant (Formicidae) - termite (Rhinotermitidae) eating specialist with distinctly higher percentages of occurrence frequency (F = 65 %), number of prey items (N = 80 %), and importance (Ix = 75 %) than those of remaining types. The Simpson diversity index of 0.939 shows a high abundance of food prey in the wild, and the Evenness index of 0.536 suggests biased consumption of feeding selection for M. nigromaculata. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The segregation in one trophic niche of n -dimensional niches can allow many species to coexist in the same habitat. In this study, we conducted surveys in Ben En National Park, Thanh Hoa Province, Vietnam to examine stomach contents of two syntopic tree frog species, Hyla simplex and Polypedates megacephalus , using the stomach-flushing method. A total of 21 individuals of H. simplex and 32 individuals of P. megacephalus were sampled revealing 352 food items (H. simplex : 131 invertebrates belonging to 20 prey types of seven orders; P. megacephalus : 215 invertebrates belonging to 22 prey types of 11 orders). Generally, both species consumed slightly diverse and equal prey types. However, ants (Formicidae) and termites (Rhinotermitidae) were identified as the most dominant and important prey for the two tree frog species. With only 38.95% overlap, it is evident that there is tropic segregation between the two syntopic species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Termite colony foundation precedes the incipient stage, when the first oviposition cycle takes place, followed by months of reproductive inactivity. The royal couple is supposed to cease oviposition during this period, investing energy to care for the first brood. When a suitable number of alloparents differentiate, egg-laying resumes. Here we followed oviposition dynamics, embryo development and queen/king body changes in laboratory colonies of the major pest species Coptotermes gestroi (Rhinotermitidae) and Cryptotermes brevis (Kalotermitidae) during 9 months. We show that they differ in these oviposition dynamics, as C. gestroi queens displayed an uninterrupted oviposition whereas C. brevis laid a cohort of eggs and ceased oviposition during a 3-month period (lag phase). C. gestroi oviposition dynamic was remarkable and suggests that occurrence of progeny was not a limiting factor, thus queens and kings were able to concomitantly invest energy in reproduction and parental care. These findings contrast those reported for rhinotermitids from temperate areas, and we discuss the likely reasons for such a condition, including endogenous rhythms, avoidance of a high mortality rate of the first progeny and adaptation to the weather conditions of the Neotropical region. Oviposition dynamic in C. brevis resembled those of several termite species, in which the royal couple cease reproduction to care for the first brood. Rearing conditions did not influence oviposition dynamics (egg-laying cycle followed by a lag phase), thus our results on the oviposition of C. gestroi and C. brevis correspond to different reproductive strategies post-foundation adopted by these pest species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Termites are highly abundant and vital insects that directly and indirectly influence local soils. The present study investigated the morphological and molecular phylogenetics of termite species collected from study fields in southern Haryana, India, from 2020 to 2021. Samples were subjected to integrated systematic analyses, taking into account the mandible features of soldiers for morphological systematics and 16S rRNA gene-based phylogeny for molecular systematics. Based on the external phenotype and relations to reference sequences in NCBI GenBank, 21 species were identified; these included five species each from Odontotermes and Microcerotermes, four species from Coptotermes, two species each from Microtermes and Eremotermes, and one species each from Amitermes, Angulitermes, and Neotermes. 16S rRNA gene sequences were utilized to construct phylogenetic trees to explore the relatedness among identified species. The results of the different molecular phylogenetic approaches including maximum parsimony, maximum likelihood, and neighbor-joining revealed nearly identical topological relations between the species and grouping of individuals in relation to their genera. The maximum parsimony tree based on mandible features has been found to be effective in clustering multiple species of a given genus in a clade in at least three termite genera. [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]

Abstract Reduced genetic diversity through inbreeding can negatively affect pathogen resistance. This relationship becomes more complicated in social species, such as social insects, since the chance of disease transmission increases with the frequency of interactions among individuals. However, social insects may benefit from social immunity, whereby individual physiological defenses may be bolstered by collective‐level immune responses, such as grooming or sharing of antimicrobial substance through trophallaxis. We set out to determine whether differences in genetic diversity between colonies of the subterranean termite, Reticulitermes flavipes, accounts for colony survival against pathogens. We sampled colonies throughout the United States (Texas, North Carolina, Maryland, and Massachusetts) and determined the level of inbreeding of each colony. To assess whether genetically diverse colonies were better able to survive exposure to diverse pathogens, we challenged groups of termite workers with two strains of a pathogenic fungus, one local strain present in the soil surrounding sampled colonies and another naïve strain, collected outside the range of this species. We found natural variation in the level of inbreeding between colonies, but this variation did not explain differences in susceptibility to either pathogen. Although the naïve strain was found to be more hazardous than the local strain, colony resistance was correlated between two strains, meaning that colonies had either relatively high or low susceptibility to both strains regardless of their inbreeding coefficient. Overall, our findings may reflect differential virulence between the strains, immune priming of the colonies via prior exposure to the local strain, or a coevolved resistance toward this strain. They also suggest that colony survival may rely more upon additional factors, such as different behavioral response thresholds or the influence of a specific genetic background, rather than the overall genetic diversity of the colony.

During the last ten years, the problem of subterranean termites in Alexandria, Egypt has worsened, causing great economic losses. Throughout our study to survey the termite species in Alexandria, a species was found that differed from any of the previously recorded ones in Egypt. The aim of this study was to identify this invasive subterranean species in the region. Samples were collected from infested buildings and trees, and their morphological characteristics along with their DNA barcoding loci (COII, 18S and 28S) were determined. Moreover, phylogenetic comparison with other related species were also considered for the most accurate identification. The analysis of all the previously mentioned parameters proved that it is Coptotermes sp. This genus is identified and recorded for the first time in Egypt and North Africa. This study demonstrates that the combination of molecular and morphological methods is essential for accurate species identification, which aids in the correct control of destructive pests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Insecticide baits for use against subterranean termites have been shown to be highly effective, but the time required for termites to find and feed on baits may be a barrier to adoption in some areas. One explanation for this "time-to-attack" problem is that termite foraging near the soil surface may be limited during inhospitable periods. In California, characterized by a hot-summer Mediterranean climate, western subterranean termites have mostly been observed near the surface during the wet season, suggesting that baits installed in summer may sit uninvestigated for many months. To test this hypothesis, we established research plots in areas of known termite incidence, installing baits on four different dates over a one-year period and then recording termite activity every 60 days for two years. As expected, most foraging in these stations was observed in winter and spring. Time-to-attack for stations installed at the beginning of winter was significantly less than for stations installed at the beginning of summer (194 d vs. 296 d). These findings may help pest control operators in regions with pronounced dry periods to optimize their use of bait station systems by targeting specific installation seasons. Rhinotermitid termites, serious pests of wooden structures throughout the world, are commonly controlled with chitin synthesis inhibitor bait systems. Seasonal termite foraging patterns in some regions may prolong bait interception time, however, significantly decreasing colony elimination speed. We hypothesized that installing baits immediately prior to the season of highest foraging activity will minimize interception time when baiting for Reticulitermes spp. in California, a region characterized by a hot-summer Mediterranean climate. To test this theory, we installed three different bait systems on four dates corresponding to the major seasons (spring, summer, autumn, winter) at five field locations known to harbor the target species. We then recorded initial termite discovery events every 60 days for two years, considering effects of installation season, bait system, site, and distance from previously observed termite incidence on bait interception time. Observed foraging activity in bait stations was highest during late winter and spring. Baits installed during winter exhibited interception times more than 100 days shorter than those of baits installed during summer. From these findings, we conclude that colony elimination speed and perceived CSI bait utility may be increased in Mediterranean climate regions when baits are installed immediately prior to the wet season. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social insect colonies are characterized by an efficient division of labor, allowing high-value individuals (i.e., reproductives and brood) to be sheltered from tasks associated with increased risk of pathogen exposure, such as foraging or corpse disposal. This social organization helps limit the transmission of disease throughout the colony. Further, individuals can actively respond to imminent disease threats by altering their behaviors as a means of social immunity. In subterranean termites, although workers typically avoid detected pathogens, they can be attracted to pathogen cues when a nestmate is infected. Infected termites are usually groomed, but they may instead be cannibalized if the infection has already become lethal. The mechanisms governing these changes in behavior are unclear. We set out to examine immediate changes in individual behaviors, investigating the role that the infected individual plays in communicating its infection status to nestmates. We also assessed gradual changes in social organization after the re-introduction of an infected termite to the colony. Our results reveal that infected termites likely do not signal their infection status to nestmates through shaking behaviors and reduced movements, suggesting the occurrence of other mechanisms used in communicating infection. We also found that infected termites do not self-isolate and may travel to the densest part of the colony, where they can potentially benefit from grooming by large groups of nestmates. These results provide new insights into how individual changes in immune behaviors contribute to overall colony health, highlighting that, at early stages of infection, termites favor a rescuing strategy rather than isolation and/or cannibalization.

The subterranean termite Reticulitermes aculabialis was firstly described from the soldier caste in 1977 and diagnose from the imago has been difficult due to the lack of description of alate. In this paper, a detailed description of alate for R. aculabialis is presented, including additional data to soldiers. The data are chiefly based on the external morphology of R. aculabialis imago, which has never been described before. All the samples of alates and soldiers were collected in Xi'an, Shaanxi province, China. All of the essential specific characteristics are illustrated for identification purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Termites are social insects that play an important role in ecosystem. Habitat is a crucial factors determining diversity of termites. IPB University campus has quite diverse habitat types. In this research, we study the diversity and abundance of termite species around IPB University campus. Two methods used for data collection, i.e. baiting system with pine wood and transect survey within 10 x 10 m area. Six species of termites found belongs to two families, Termitidae (Macrotermes gilvus, Odontotermes javanicus, Microtermes insperatus, and Capritermes mohri) and Rhinotermitidae (Schedorhinotermes javanicus and Coptotermes curvignathus). The most diverse with the high abundance of these termites are found in the rubber trees area, Faculty of Fisheries (FPI) and the forest behind the main administration building, Rectorate (REK) because this area provides an abundant source of cellulose as a food source for termites. While the building areas tend to have a lower diversity and abundance index because food sources for termites are not always available due to human activities. Non-metric multidimensional scaling analysis shows that the termites species composition is different between study area.

Termites are intimately tied to the microbial world, as they utilize their gut microbiome for the conversion of plant cellulose into necessary nutrients. Subterranean termites must also protect themselves from the vast diversity of harmful microbes found in soil. However, not all soil microbes are harmful, such as Streptomyces and methanotrophic bacteria that some species of termites harbor in complex nest structures made of fecal material. The eastern subterranean termite, Reticulitermes flavipes, has a simple nest structure consisting of fecal lined galleries. We tested the hypothesis that R. flavipes maintains a select microbial community in its nests to limit the penetration of harmful soilborne pathogens and favor the growth of beneficial microbes. Using Illumina sequencing, we characterized the bacterial and fungal communities in the surrounding soil, in the nest galleries, and on the cuticle of workers. We found that the galleries provide a more beneficial microbial community than the surrounding soil. Bacterial and fungal diversity was highest in the soil, lower in the galleries, and least on the cuticle. Bacterial communities clustered together according to the substrate from which they were sampled, but this clustering was less clear in fungal communities. Most of the identified bacterial and fungal taxa were unique to one substrate, but the soil and gallery communities had very similar phylum-level taxonomic profiles. Notably, the galleries of R. flavipes also harbored both the potentially beneficial Streptomyces and the methanotrophic Methylacidiphilales, indicating that these microbial associations in fecal material pre-date the emergence of complex fecal nest structures. Surprisingly, several pathogenic groups were relatively abundant in the galleries and on the cuticle, suggesting that pathogens may accumulate within termite nests over time while putatively remaining at enzootic level during the lifetime of the colony. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Termites are well recognized by their complex development trajectories, involving dynamic differentiation process between non‐reproductive castes, workers and soldiers. These insects are associated with endosymbiotic microorganisms, which help in lignocellulose digestion and nitrogen metabolism. Aiming to identify genes harbouring biotechnological potential, we analyzed workers and soldiers RNA‐Seq data of three neotropical termites: Heterotermes tenuis (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae), Velocitermes heteropterus (Isoptera: Termitidae) and Cornitermes cumulans (Isoptera: Termitidae). We observed differences in the microbiota associated with each termite family, and found protists' genes in both Termitidae species. We found an opposite pattern of caste‐biased gene expression between H. tenuis and the termitids studied. Moreover, the two termitids are considerably different concerning the number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Functional annotation indicated considerable differences in caste‐biased gene content between V. heteropterus and C. cumulans, even though they share similar diet and biological niche. Among the most DEGs, we highlighted those involved in caste differentiation and cellulose digestion, which are attractive targets for studying more efficient technologies for termite control, biomass digestion and other biotechnological applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reduced genetic diversity through inbreeding can negatively affect pathogen resistance. This relationship becomes more complicated in social species, such as social insects, since the chance of disease transmission increases with the frequency of interactions among individuals. However, social insects may benefit from social immunity, whereby individual physiological defenses may be bolstered by collective‐level immune responses, such as grooming or sharing of antimicrobial substance through trophallaxis. We set out to determine whether differences in genetic diversity between colonies of the subterranean termite, Reticulitermes flavipes, accounts for colony survival against pathogens. We sampled colonies throughout the United States (Texas, North Carolina, Maryland, and Massachusetts) and determined the level of inbreeding of each colony. To assess whether genetically diverse colonies were better able to survive exposure to diverse pathogens, we challenged groups of termite workers with two strains of a pathogenic fungus, one local strain present in the soil surrounding sampled colonies and another naïve strain, collected outside the range of this species. We found natural variation in the level of inbreeding between colonies, but this variation did not explain differences in susceptibility to either pathogen. Although the naïve strain was found to be more hazardous than the local strain, colony resistance was correlated between two strains, meaning that colonies had either relatively high or low susceptibility to both strains regardless of their inbreeding coefficient. Overall, our findings may reflect differential virulence between the strains, immune priming of the colonies via prior exposure to the local strain, or a coevolved resistance toward this strain. They also suggest that colony survival may rely more upon additional factors, such as different behavioral response thresholds or the influence of a specific genetic background, rather than the overall genetic diversity of the colony. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A colony of Reticulitermes lucifugus from Apulia (SE Italian Peninsula) was recently observed to have partially consumed some polystyrene panels applied on a wall, and used like seat for termite nest. Further observations could allow to better understand if this colony is just able to physically consume and chew this plastic material, releasing it chemically intact after the passage throughout the termites’ digestive system, or if their microbiome could allow the insects to at least partially metabolize and degrade the ingested polystyrene fragments, as recently observed in a few other insects.

Background: Coptotermes sjostedti Holmgren (Isoptera:Rhinotermitidae) is one of the major termite species found infesting woods and other plant materials in Africa. Bioassays were carried out at the Arboretum of the Department of Forestry and Wildlife Resources Management, University of Calabar, Nigeria to investigate the effect of oils from the kernel of Jatropha curcas L. and Azadirachta indica oils A. Juss against the African subterranean termite (Coptotermes sjostedti Holmgren). Treatments comprised of the plant oils and Solignum (a synthetic termiticide, serving as positive control) applied at the rate of 5, 10 and 15 mL per 100 cm3 of the wood from seven plant species. Untreated woods also served as control. Seven wood species were placed in a test arena and artificially infested with 50 termites per unit. The setup was a randomized complete block design with four replicates. Data on termite mortality and wood weight loss were recorded. Results: The use of 10 and 15 mL of J. curcas oil caused more than 90% mortality of C. sjostedti, after 96 h, kept wood consumption by the insect below 6.0% after 3 months, and these outcomes were similar to that of Solignum at the same concentrations. About 35.0–65.2% reduction in weight was observed among untreated woods from the tested woods, indicating their susceptibility to C. sjostedti attacks. Correlation analysis shows a significant (r > − 0.900; P < 0.0001) negative association between termite mortality and the rate of wood consumption. Conclusion: The use of J. curcas oil at 10 mL per 100 cm3 of wood could be a potent alternative to Solignum for the control of C. sjostedti. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki and Coptotermes gestroi (Wasmann) (Blattoidea: Rhinotermitidae) are invasive subterranean termite pest species with a major global economic impact. However, the descriptions of the mutualistic protist communities harbored in their respective hindguts remain fragmentary. The C. formosanus hindgut has long been considered to harbor three protist species, Pseudotrichonympha grassii (Trichonymphida), Holomastigotoides hartmanni, and Cononympha (Spirotrichonympha) leidyi (Spirotrichonymphida), but molecular data have suggested that the diversity may be higher. Meanwhile, the C. gestroi community remains undescribed except for Pseudotrichonympha leei. To complete the characterization of these communities, hindguts of workers from both termite species were investigated using single‐cell PCR, microscopy, cell counts, and 18S rRNA amplicon sequencing. The two hosts were found to harbor intriguingly parallel protist communities, each consisting of one Pseudotrichonympha species, two Holomastigotoides species, and two Cononympha species. All protist species were unique to their respective hosts, which last shared a common ancestor ~18 MYA. The relative abundances of protist species in each hindgut differed remarkably between cell count data and 18S rRNA profiles, calling for caution in interpreting species abundances from amplicon data. This study will enable future research in C. formosanus and C. gestroi hybrids, which provide a unique opportunity to study protist community inheritance, compatibility, and potential contribution to hybrid vigor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on behavioral observations, we report termitophily by the earwig Spirolabia kaja Kočárek, sp. nov. (Spongiphoridae: Labiinae). The new species was found in association with the wood-boring termite Schedorhinotermes sarawakensis (Holmgren, 1913) in a dipterocarp rain forest in Borneo; in addition to being observed in the galleries, termite–earwig interactions were subsequently documented in the laboratory. We found that earwigs and termites communicate by antennation, and we observed no form of targeted mutual or unilateral aggressive behavior. The earwigs responded to the proximity of an experimentally irritated termite soldier by conflict-avoidance behavior based on thanatosis, which seems to be a defensive reaction that may reduce the chance of being attacked by an irritated termite. Based on the analysis of gastrointestinal tract contents, we conclude that S. kaja sp. nov. is an omnivorous species that feeds mainly on plant tissues and fungi but occasionally on arthropod remains. The occurrence of S. kaja sp. nov. adults together with the nymphs (2nd to 4th instars) in the galleries of S. sarawakensis strongly suggests that the earwig can reproduce inside the termite colony. Spirolabia kaja Kočárek, sp. nov. is the first earwig species for which termitophily has been demonstrated.

Although mutualistic associations between animals and microbial symbionts are widespread in nature, the mechanisms that have promoted their evolutionary persistence remain poorly understood. A vertical mode of symbiont transmission (from parents to offspring) is thought to ensure partner fidelity and stabilization, although the efficiency of vertical transmission has rarely been investigated, especially in cases where hosts harbour a diverse microbial community. Here we evaluated vertical transmission rates of cellulolytic gut oxymonad and parabasalid protists in the wood‐feeding termite Reticulitermes grassei. We sequenced amplicons of the 18S rRNA gene of protists from 24 colonies of R. grassei collected in two populations. For each colony, the protist community was characterized from the gut of 14 swarming reproductives and from a pool of 10 worker guts. A total of 98 operational taxonomic units belonging to 13 species‐level taxa were found. The vertical transmission rate was estimated for each protist present in a colony based on its frequency among the reproductives. The results revealed that transmission rates were high, with an average of 0.897 (±0.164) per protist species. Overall, the protist community did not differ between reproductive sexes, suggesting that both the queen and the king could contribute to the gut microbiota of the offspring. A positive relationship between the transmission rate of protists and their prevalence within populations was also detected. However, transmission rates alone do not explain the prevalence of protists. In conclusion, these findings reveal key forces behind a conserved, multispecies mutualism, raising further questions on the roles of horizontal transfer and negative selection in shaping symbiont prevalence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Formosan subterranean termite, Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki, 1909 (Blattodea: Rhinotermitidae), is a well-known pest of wood structures. Its native range has been widely investigated for potential implications for pest control strategies. Termitophilous staphylinid species of the genera Japanophilus Maruyama & Iwata, 2002 and Sinophilus Kistner, 1985 found in nests of C. formosanus have been used to infer the native range of their host termite. Herein, we extend the range of these two genera to include Taiwan, the type locality of C. formosanus. Taiwanese specimens were identifi ed as J. hojoi Maruyama & Iwata, 2002 and S. yukoae Maruyama & Iwata, 2002 based on morphological and molecular data. The fi rst-instar larva of J. hojoi is described, the fi rst known immature stage of the tribe Termitohospitini (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Aleocharinae). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Ciência Florestal (01039954) is the property of Ciencia Florestal and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Checklists of species of organisms from defined localities have aided scientists who seek to establish new taxon records therein. This work was carried out to update information on the Checklists of Nigerian Termites published about four decades ago and to reconcile information on richness and diversity of Nigerian termites. Taxonomy-related articles published on Nigerian termites were collated, reviewed and compared with the information contained in the world's most comprehensive termite reference by Krishna et al. (2013) to bring this update forth. Currently, Nigerian termites have increased from the previously reported 120 species in 1980 to 147 species in 66 genera from three taxonomic families - Kalotermitidae, Rhinotermitidae and Termitidae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ironwood trees (Casuarina equisetifolia subsp. equisetifolia L.) are ecologically and economically important trees in tropical and subtropical regions of the Indo-Pacific. Ironwood is one of the dominant tree species in Guam, but since 2002, this tree has been declining dramatically. A previous study showed that numerous sick or dead trees were under termite attack. However, the species of termites were not identified. As a first step to investigate causal relationships between termites and ironwood tree death, we assigned termites collected from ironwood trees to species using a combination of morphological characters and DNA barcoding of the 12S, 16S, COI, COII, and ITS2 regions. Based on morphology and comparisons to reference sequences in NCBI GenBank, the most likely species assignments were Nasutitermes takasagoensis (Nawa) (Blattodea: Termitidae) found to infest 45 trees, followed by Coptotermes gestroi (Wasmann) (Blattodea: Rhinotermitidae) (2 trees), Microcerotermes crassus Snyder (Blattodea: Termitidae) (2 trees), and an additional unidentified Microcerotermes species (1 tree) with no close sequence match to identified species in NCBI GenBank. However, taxonomic revisions and broader representation of DNA markers of well-curated specimen in public databases are clearly needed, especially for the N. takasagoensis species complex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the study conducted at the Kruger National Park in South Africa on species abundance and diversity of termites in a single catena. Mentioned are results of the stabilization of termites' accumulation curves and confidence interval among genera samples. A table is presented on the classification of termite genera in the area under Rhinotermitidae and Termitidae families.

Abstract This study evaluated the termite susceptibility of Papua New Guinea (PNG) balsa (Ochroma pyramidale) against Australia's most economically important wood-destroying termite species, Coptotermes acinaciformis. Samples of envelope treated PNG balsa with the insecticide bifenthrin and non-treated balsa, radiata pine (Pinus radiata) sapwood and southern blue gum (Eucalyptus globulus) heartwood were exposed to seven different colonies of C. acinaciformis at a field site in the Northern Territory, Australia. The results indicated that balsa is susceptible to termite attack, with a mean mass loss of 30.9% (range 3.8–99.9%). Mean mass losses for radiata pine and southern blue gum were 90.3 and 98.9% respectively. It was evident that balsa can be successfully protected from termite attack with envelope-treatments of bifenthrin, with the latter proving to be highly efficacious at mass/volume retentions much lower than those specified in AS 1604.1 and typically used in the Australian timber preservation industry. Highlights • PNG balsa is susceptible to wood-destroying termite attack in Australia, with a mean mass loss of 30.9% (range 3.9–99.9%). • Similarly, as a control in the study, the mean mass losses for radiata pine and southern blue gum were 90.3% and 98.9%. • Balsa can be successfully protected from termite attack with envelope-treatments of the insecticide bifenthrin. • The paper reviews the literature for balsa susceptibility to termite species and details the origin of balsa and methods used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • RNAi can be initiated by injection or ingestion of dsRNA in Coptotermes formosanus. • Gene silencing of cellulases led to reduced enzyme activity and weight. • ds CfEG could serve as a cellulase inhibitor or active ingredients in termite bait. Abstract Termites obtain energy and nutrition from wood and wood-related materials by utilizing endogenous and symbiotic cellulases. Endoglucanase is one of the key cellulases in cellulose digestion. Previous studies have shown that the inhibition of the cellulase enzyme system would be a plausible approach for termite control. In the present study, we studied the effect of RNAi on termites by targeting a conserved region of five endoglucanase genes from Coptotermes formosanus (CfEG s). Both dsRNA injection and oral delivery resulted in significant gene silencing of CfEG s and consequently led to mortality, reduced enzyme activity, and reduced weight compared to control worker termites. An injection dose of 150 ng and a feeding dose of 2 μg/cm2 provided for the best RNAi efficiency. ds CfEG was further combined with flufenoxuron, an insect growth regulator used to manage/suppress subterranean termites, and when fed to workers, caused a lower enzyme activity compared to the ds CfEG - or flufenoxuron-only treatment. The weight loss (∼0.598 mg) and mortality (∼28%) observed in the combined ds CfEG and flufenoxuron treatment differed significantly from those observed in the flufenoxuron-only treatment (∼0.208 mg and ∼16%, respectively). Although the effects of these ds CfEG treatments on mortality were insufficient to serve as termiticides, ds CfEG s could be used in combination with other treatments to increase efficacy. This study provides a research basis for the use of RNAi in termiticides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Species of the order, Isoptera (termites), have always been a nuisance to humans, costing them tremendous amounts of damage. Because of this, exterminating termites is a common goal, but finding natural pesticides is quite a difficult task. For this reason, we have conducted an experiment using three organic materials: 50% lemon juice/50% vinegar, orange oil, and salt water to test their efficiency at killing termites, along with recording any behavior changes observed. The orange oil worked the best, exterminating every termite it came into contact with. The other two organic materials did not kill the termites at all, only causing hindrance to their movements. Due to the success of the orange oil as a pesticide for termites, we now have an interest to investigate deeper and test how well other concentrated oils would do as pesticides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Termites have gained importance as major pests in cocoa agroforests. Proper identification of termite species and knowledge on their functional diversity are the first steps in developing environmentally compatible management strategies. We tested the hypothesis that patterns of termite species richness in different cocoa agroforests is related to responses by termite functional groups to changes in shade management. We compared termite assemblages under five cocoa agroforestry systems in Cameroon to assess the impact of shade on termite taxonomic and functional group diversity. Sampling was done using a modified standardized transect method. Two 30 × 30 m quadrates each divided into three transects were laid in four farms at each site. Termites sampled were identified and grouped according to habitats, functional groups, and feeding habits. Sixty‐nine termite species in 33 genera and five subfamilies under two families were sampled. Termitidae was the most dominant family and Rhinotermitidae the least dominant with few species. Termite species richness decreased significantly from the heavy shaded cocoa agroforests (44 species) to the full sun (11 species). Functional group pattern differed significantly in all the cocoa agroforests and within each agroforestry system and dominated by wood and litter feeder species. Many species belonging to this group were responsible to most damages on cocoa trees. Both the richness of termite pests and marketable yield followed a quadratic curve and were found to be lowest and highest in plots with shade cover above 40%. The simulated optimal shade levels for low termite infestations and marketable yield overlapped between 45% and 65% indicating that cocoa agroforestry systems with around 55% shade cover may be optimal to balance termite infestations and marketable yield. Shade maintenance in cocoa agroforests is valuable in reducing termite pest species and conserving soil feeding termites which provide beneficial ecosystem services. We tested the hypothesis that patterns of termite species richness in different cocoa agroforestry types are related to responses by termite functional groups to changes in shade management. Functional group pattern differed significantly in all the cocoa agroforestry systems and within each agroforestry system and dominated by wood and litter feeder species. Shade maintenance in cocoa agroforests is valuable in reducing termite pest species and conserving soil‐feeding termites which provide beneficial ecosystem services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Termites and their nests are potential resources for a wide assemblage of taxa including nematodes. During dispersal flight events from termite colonies, co-occurring nematodes in the nest may have phoretic opportunities to use termite alates as transportation hosts. The two subterranean termite species Coptotermes gestroi (Wasmann) and Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki are both invasive and established in south Florida. Alates of both species (n = 245) were collected during dispersal flight events in 2015–2016 from six locations, of which 30 (12.2%) were associated with one or more species of nematodes. Species of Bunonema Jägerskiöld (Rhabditida: Bunonematidae), Halicephalobus Timm (Rhabditda: Panagrolaimidae), and Poikilolaimus regenfussi (Sudhaus) Sudhaus and Koch (Rhabditida: Rhabditidae) were isolated from 5.3, 4.9, and 0.4% of termite alates, respectively, and Bunonema and Halicephalobus were concomitant in 1.6% of alates. Additional C. formosanus alates were field-collected to establish laboratory colonies in sterilized rearing containers (SRC) to determine if alate-associated nematodes would colonize the newly established nest and/or brood. Among 1-yr-old termite colonies reared in SRCs, 26.9% of the colonies were positive for nematodes confirming that within-colony transmission of nematodes occurred. All three isolated nematode genera are free-living bacterivores capable of asexual reproduction. This suggests that these common co-occurring, termite-associated nematodes are opportunistic and facultative symbionts that receive increased opportunities of geographical dispersion through phoresy during termite dispersal flight events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Coptotermes gestroi forages on wooden structures and causes substantial damage in urban areas of Brazil. The survival of foragers may be influenced by either group size or caste composition. It was hypothesised that workers survive at higher rates in larger groups and consequently exhibit higher rates of food consumption and that soldiers represent a nutritional resource for foragers during starvation periods. To test the first hypothesis, groups of 100, 200 and 400 workers were placed in experimental arenas containing wood as food. After 28 days, the units were evaluated and the number of living termites and wood consumption were estimated and compared. An analysis of the data found that there were no significant differences within the group sizes on termite survival but that relative wood consumption was significantly higher in the smaller groups. To test the second hypothesis, groups containing workers and soldiers (9:1 ratio) or only workers were placed in experimental arenas with food present or absent. Survival for each caste was monitored at 3 day intervals over 9 days to estimate the cannibalism rate. Cannibalism was significantly higher in the starved groups, but the presence of soldiers did not influence the rate of cannibalism. Colony fragmentation and starvation are stressful conditions that lead foragers of C. gestroi to adaptive behaviours in order to enhance their survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The subterranean termite Reticulitermes grassei Clément causes lesions in the trunk of Quercus suber L. by constructing feeding galleries, but no information is available regarding other Quercus species from the Mediterranean region. This work aimed to study the suitability of the other main oak species of Mediterranean forests as a food resource for R. grassei. Two experiments, choice and non-choice feeding, were conducted lasting for 15, 30, and 45 days each. In the non-choice experiment, termites were offered one of the following food types: Quercus suber, Quercus ilex L., Quercus faginea Lam, cork or Pinus pinea L., which was considered the control. The choice feeding experiment used all the same food types listed above, supplied simultaneously in the same container. Food selection was examined by analysing the relationships over time between surviving termites and food consumption. The results indicated that R. grassei could be considered a generalist species, as it consumed the cork and wood of all oak species, as well as displaying a clear preference for soft wood (pine). Correlation analysis indicated that consumption was not dependent on wood density. Survival of R. grassei was influenced by the time of exposure to different oak species, but a high survival rate was maintained over time in the pine treatment (upper 70% in the three experiments). Given these results, it can be concluded that all the oak species are a suitable food source for R. grassei. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Las termitas (Isoptera) son insectos sociales que ocasionan daños en muchos cultivos de interés económico. Teniendo en cuenta la importancia del cultivo de mango en la economía de los agricultores del departamento del Magdalena y la expansión de este cultivo en la región, se realizó un inventario inicial de las especies de termitas presentes. Se realizaron muestreos en 22 huertos ubicados en las diferentes zonas productoras del departamento del Magdalena. Se realizó una recolección manual de los especímenes de termitas en cada zona y se determinaron dos familias: Rhinotermitidae, con un género (Heterotermes); y Termitidae, con dos géneros (Microcerotermes y Nasutitermes). Se identificaron cuatro morfoespecies, dentro de las cuales Nasutitermes sp. presentó la mayor abundancia y una amplia distribución en el área de estudio, seguida de N. nigriceps, Microcerotermes sp. y Heterotermes tenuis. Se requieren nuevas observaciones en campo y laboratorio que permitan determinar los factores que afectan la distribución e incidencia de las especies de termitas en el departamento y un análisis sobre su impacto económico en el cultivo.