Frequency of some behavioural patterns in colonies ofKalotermes flavicollis(Isoptera Kalotermitidae): the importance of social interactions and vibratory movements as mechanisms for social integration

Abstract

Behavioural repertories of individuals from different developmental stages and castes of the lower termite Kalotermes flavicollis were investigated by focal animal sampling performed on laboratory colonies. Our study focuses on those behavioural patterns used as means of communication in inter-individual transmission of information. Vibratory movements, especially those performed by nymphs, appear to communicate short-term colony needs through mechanicaltactile stimulation. Allogrooming patterns among colony members seems the most likely way to exchange messages through pheromone spreading, and the interactions with the reproductives emphasize the key role they assume in receiving and transmitting signals on which the regulation of social equilibrium is probably based.