Reproductive dynamics and colony structure of subterranean termites of the genus Reticulitermes (Isoptera Rhinotermitidae): a review of the evidence from behavioral, ecological, and genetic studies

Abstract

(1) In subterranean termites of the genus Reticulitermes, colonies are difficult to delineate because physical nest structures are concealed or amorphous, and colony boundaries are difficult to define. The ambiguity of colony architecture and the cryptic nesting and feeding habits of these ecologically and economically important termites hinder our understanding of their population biology. We review and synthesize current information on Reticulitermes life history, reproduction, and genetics to develop an understanding of colony and population structure, and possible modes of reproductive organization. (2) To infer colony structure, we simulate several breeding systems that might be found in Reticulitermes and determine the F statistics and relatedness coefficients expected for groups of workers drawn from the simulated populations. Available field data on the distribution of worker genotypes within and among colonies are then used to distinguish between alternate hypotheses regarding population and breeding structure in Reticulitermes. (3) Comparisons suggest that Reticulitermes colony structure ranges from simple families with monogamous, alate-derived parents to complex, interconnected nests containing numerous inbreeding neotenic reproductives. Patterns of colony organization may vary considerably depending upon species, colony size, habitat, and population. Inbreeding and complex colony structures have also been documented in other termites and in some social Hymenoptera.