Rainfall and soil properties influence termite mound abundance and height: A case study with Odontotermes obesus (Macrotermitinae) mounds in the Indian Western Ghats forests

摘要: Abstract Several fungus-growing termite species build mounds, or termitaria, that are conspicuous features of African and Asian landscapes. Studies the genus Macrotermes in Africa have established their mounds provide an environment buffered against extremes temperature humidity, as well protection from predators, correspondingly modified composition. However, no studies available specific context continent where also abundant. Hence this study focused on abundance properties built by Odontotermes obesus relation to rainfall parent soil southern Indian forests, Western Ghats area. Termite mound densities sizes were measured 18 forests along a gradient 1160 3670 mm yr−1. The C clay contents analyzed samples collected surrounding topsoil. Mound numerical density was positively correlated with height had negative relationship abundance. Neither vegetation type nor influenced content walls but positive linear observed between wall topsoil environment, suggesting rather low impact termites soil. depended mainly how much used. In conclusion, shows amount affects O. India while determines properties.