Rapid Biodiversity Evaluation of the Arboreal Termites in Kano University of Science and Technology, Wudil, Nigeria

Abstract

A rapid biodiversity evaluation of arboreal termite was carried out on the campus of Kano University of Science and Technology, Wudil. Three different trees which include Mangifera indica, Azadirachta indica and Khaya senegalensis were selected from three different sites (campus new site, premises of administrative offices and commercial area) on the campus and examined for termite activity, either arboreal nests or mud tubes which indicated infestation by the termites. Using a soft brush termite samples were collected into a labeled sampling bottle containing 10% formalin solution by cutting open the mud tubes and the nests with a forceps on the trees. A total of one hundred and twelve (112) individuals termites were samples were collected during the study belonging to five species: Coptotermes sp., Microtermes sp., Odontotermes sp., Amitermes sp. and Nutitermes sp. The Coptotermes sp. are the most abundant species both on the trees and the sites. Khaya senegalensis has the greatest diversity of the termite fauna as compared to other trees while campus new site (site A) also has greatest diversity. Coptotermes sp are insects of agricultural economic importance and feed on dead wood; therefore, they are insect pests of these trees and other building structures on the campus.