Exploratory and recruitment phases in soldier-mediated foraging activities in the termite,Coptotermes intermediusSilvestri (Rhinotermitidae: Coptotermitinae)

Abstract

Coptotermes intermedius is a damp-wood subterranean termite, which attacks timber and other woody materials with heavy losses in the southern part of Nigeria. The process leading to search for wood and eventual damage was investigated, with focus on how this search is initiated and by which of the termite castes. Results showed that minor soldiers initiate the exploratory phase of search, while the workers are involved in the eventual recruitment process. Under appropriate soldier-worker caste ratio or percentages, exploratory activities in C. intermedius may be regulated.