Systematic search for food in the subterranean termite Reticulitermes santonensis De Feytaud (Isoptera, Rhinotermitidae)

Abstract

The search for food in subterranean termites is investigated in the French species Reticulitermes santonensis De Feytaud (Isoptera, Rhinotermitidae). Not accompanied by soldiers, only few pioneer workers explore a new territory systematically in every direction by means of short exploratory trails (median: 1.3 cm). Following these trails, termites build subterranean tunnels and/or galleries in the open, hereby forming an extensive regularly branched net. Food is detected over distance by perceiving volatiles emanating from the wood. Then foragers appear more frequently and undertake longer exploratory runs (up to 15 cm), which are directed towards the odour source. Following contact with the wood, sucessful workers return to the nest precisely along their exploratory trail and hereby lay a recruitment trail. This recruitment trail is immediately followed by further workers as well as by single soldiers. Following the course of this trail, termites build a non‐branched subterranean tunnel or a gallery above ground leading straight to the wood. This direct access requires less investment and provides workers with a shelter ensuring a rapid and safe exploitation of the food source.