Subterranean termite defense mechanisms against entomopathogenic fungi: Evidence of a synergy between behavioral, chemical, and cellular factors through a histological approach

The entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium anisopliae has been a candidate for biological control of subterranean termites, however a successful field trial has yet to be reported. Individual disease resistance mechanisms such as repellency, grooming, antifungal chemicals, and cellular encapsulation were previously reported in subterranean termites, but the interaction between these mechanisms is still poorly understood. This study provides evidence of a synergy between three major disease resistance mechanisms through a histological approach and suggests an alternative approach for biological control in subterranean termites.