Long-term impact of orphaning on field colonies of Coptotermes lacteus (Froggatt) (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae)

摘要: Colonies ofCoptotermes lacteus (Froggatt) from a site in coastal south-eastern Australia were experimentally orphaned early 1989. Sample colonies examined 3, 6, 12, 18, 24 or 30 months later for their caste composition, the presence of replacement reproductives and brood. All nymphoid neotenics. The number functional (physogastric) females ranged 1 to 27; this variability was maintained irrespective length time between orphaning inspection colonies. average live mass individual stayed at 40 mg over period 6 after groups more than five neotenic queens, but increased 38 three about 125 headed by fewer females. combined could approach even exceed that primary queens. Two key features characterized naturally orphaned, neotenic-headed colonies: (1) Nymphs differentiated significant numbers all year round least right neotenics commenced breeding (in primary-headed nymph production is strictly seasonal). (2) most nymphs males sex ratio less balanced). mechanism(s) achieving male-biased (are) unknown. Even when have resumed with help neotenics, colony survival not guaranteed. Under such circumstances gene pool best preserved if raise release large alates as potential founders new By producing largely male ensure outbreeding may prevent competition (and its disruptive impact an breeding) existing reproducing queens newly differentiating female Competition unlikely any on rate brood therefore would require mechanism it occurring.