Abstract
Here we present data on distinct stimuli as elicitors of substrate-borne vibrations performed by groups of termites belonging to the species Constrictotermes cyphergaster (Blattodea: Isoptera: Termitidae: Nasutitermitinae). The study consisted of assays where termite workers and soldiers were exposed to different airborne stimuli and the vibrations thereby elicited were captured by an accelerometer attached under the floor of the arena in which the termites were confined. A video camera was also used as a visual complement. The data provided here contribute to fill a gap currently existing in published datasets on termite communication.
Highlights
We present data on distinct stimuli as elicitors of substrate-borne vibrations performed by groups of termites belonging to the species Constrictotermes cyphergaster (Blattodea: Isoptera: Termitidae: Nasutitermitinae)
By combining substrate-borne vibrations with chemical scents, termites communicate alarm [6]. They are able to use the resonant frequency of a block of wood to assess its size, thereby choosing one food item over another [7]
Termites are sensitive to heterospecific vibration, using that information for their own benefit: as recently demonstrated [8], termites can escape danger by eavesdropping the vibrational cues emitted by predatory ants
Summary
Vibration signaling is widespread in insects [1]. Such a communication channel can be used in a range of situations, e.g., to detect predators [2], prey [3], mates [4], and to recruit nestmates [5]. By combining substrate-borne vibrations with chemical scents, termites communicate alarm [6]. They are able to use the resonant frequency of a block of wood to assess its size, thereby choosing one food item over another [7]. Termites are sensitive to heterospecific vibration, using that information for their own benefit: as recently demonstrated [8], termites can escape danger by eavesdropping the vibrational cues emitted by predatory ants In spite of such an importance, vibratory communication in termites is relatively underexplored, and published datasets on the subject are definitely very rare. Vibrations were measured using an accelerometer and were triggered by airborne stimuli
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
