Monday, 15 November 2004 - 10:06 AM
0109

Impacts of soil moisture level on consumption and distribution for three subterranean termites (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae) found in northern Indiana

Jody Aleong, jaleong@purdue.edu, Mike E. Scharf, mike_scharf@entm.purdue.edu, and Gary W. Bennett, gbennett@purdue.edu. Purdue University, 901 W State St, Smith Hall, West Lafayette, IN

Three subterranean termite species, Reticulitermes flavipes (Kollar), R. tibialis Banks, and R. virginicus Banks were collected from various locations in northern Indiana and tested under laboratory conditions to determine whether any ecological differences exist among species. Foraging and distribution/dispersal behaviors of all three species were studied using a linear, three-dimensional assay with a soil moisture gradient (5, 15, 25, 35, 45, 55% by weight) and quantified by consumption weights and distribution counts. After a seven day assay period, R. flavipes and R. tibialis consumed almost twice as much filter paper as R. virginicus, and no significant difference in feeding was attributed to moisture level (α=0.05). In terms of distribution, there were clear patterns associated with moisture level, as predicted using a Poisson distribution. Results from consumption and harborage data show unique patterns among species, and illustrate the inconsistency of consumption location and final distribution. There are clearly differences in the ecology of Indiana Reticulitermes species including distribution, consumption, aggressiveness, caste proportion, reproductive capability, resistance to drying, and mortality in a laboratory setting. These findings contribute to the overall understanding of Midwestern Reticulitermes termites, an area in need of current information in research. Findings are also important because they may be applied to enhancing termite control strategies for the future, aiding in the protection of human structures and materials. More efficient use of termiticides through baiting can be accomplished by understanding the species-specific behaviors that affect termite distribution which can help prevent termite infestations, as well as target existing colonies.


Species 1: Isoptera Rhinotermitidae Reticulitermes flavipes (eastern subterranean termite)
Species 2: Isoptera Rhinotermitidae Reticulitermes tibialis (arid land subterranean termite)
Species 3: Isoptera Rhinotermitidae Reticulitermes virginicus (dark southern subterranean termite)
Keywords: termite control

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