Effect of group size on incipient colony success in a facultatively polygamous termite

Unlike most other termites, mature colonies of Nasutitermes corniger may maintain multiple unrelated functional queens and kings. It is unknown whether colonies are initially established by groups or if pair-founded colonies later fuse, forming groups. This study examined costs and benefits of increased group size during the first 90 days of colony development. Group size did not affect incipient colony survival in a consistent pattern during the 4 years of the study. Survival of individuals in pairs and trios did not differ in most years, and was significantly higher than that of individuals in quintets. Mortality under field and laboratory conditions was particularly high during the first 30 days. Initially higher mean reproductive output by larger groups was not maintained beyond 60 days, while variability in offspring number increased over time in all founding group sizes.