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Abstract
Monthly abundance and caste proportions of subterranean termites (Reticulitennes spp.) inhabiting red imported fire ant (Solenopsis invicta Buren) mounds were recorded during 1999 and 2000 from a relatively undisturbed forest edge in Tuskegee, Alabama. Temperature data were also recorded at these mounds; mean air, soil, and mound temperatures followed a sine model over the course of the year. During the late fall and earlywinter, relative proportion ofyoung workers (< 3
rd instar) increased from 0 to 66.7% of the sample from the previous month, suggesting a change in temperature requirements arnong termite castes. These data demonstrate that Reticulitemes spp. termites are found year-round inhabiting active fire ant mounds, although relative caste proportions change seasonally. The hypothesis of a minimum soil temperature determining the movement of young Reticulitennes spp. workers into fire ant mounds (or other locations of increased temperature) is discussed.
Citation
Shelton, Thomas G.; Vogt, J.T.; Tanley, Marla J.; Appel, Arthur G. 2003. Monthly fluctuation of termite caste proportions (Isoptera) within fire ant mounds (hymenoptera: formicidae). Sociobiology Vol. 41(3): 571-581
