Abstract
The population of South Jakarta, a city within the Province of Jakarta Capital Region, is increasing annually, and the development of land into building causes termite diversity loss. The aim of this research was to determine the diversity of subterranean termite species and their distribution in South Jakarta and to evaluate the soil profile termite habitat. This study was conducted in South Jakarta and was carried out at four residential areas representing four randomly selected sub-districts. Specimens were collected with a baiting system. At each residence, as many as 25–30 stakes of pine wood (Pinus merkusii) sized 2 cm × 2 cm × 46 cm were placed for termite sampling. Soil samples were also collected from each residence for testing of their texture, pH, soil water content, and C-organic. Three species of subterranean termites were identified, including Coptotermes curvignathus, Microtermes insperatus, and Macrotermes gilvus, with area-specific variations in occurrence. The soil and weather conditions in the studied areas provided suitable habitat for termites, and M. insperatus was the most commonly found species.
Highlights
Termites frequently destroy wood as well as other cellulose materials used in building construction.The insects have successfully adapted to the varied conditions that characterize urban and agricultural environments around the world [1], and their attacks on buildings are an important issue
The intensity of these attacks is high and ongoing, and economic losses associated with them tend to increase from year to year
Pine wood was chosen for the stakes because Arinana et al [3] found that subterranean termites prefer pine wood to Acacia mangium, Hevea brasiliensis, and Paraserianthes falcataria
Summary
Termites frequently destroy wood as well as other cellulose materials used in building construction. The climate of South Jakarta features moderate rain intensity, and the humid weather can cause building damage, such as cracks and decay. This damage can provide access for termites to enter the buildings. Termites attack the cellulose-containing components of a building, such as window or door frames, doors, roofs, and ceilings, and the interior wooden structures, such as furniture and sculpture This attack will certainly inflict a high economic cost on maintaining buildings. The equipment used in this research included bottles for termite collection, brushes, a digital camera, a stereo microscope, environment meter (thermo-hygro and lux meter) (Krisbow), camera, a stereo microscope, environment meter (thermo-hygro and lux meter) (Krisbow), transparent transparent plastic, surgical instruments for termite dissection, and a soil driller.
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