Intraspecific variability in feeding capacity of Coptotermes acinaciformis (Froggatt) (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae)

IRG/WP 1175

C D Howick, J W Creffield

This paper describes laboratory studies to evaluate the comparative feeding capacity within and between five mound colonies of Coptotermes acinaciformis (Froggatt). Matched specimens of mountain ash, pine and coachwood were exposed to five replicate 10 g groups of termites from each colony source. After an initial 8-week exposure period, all groups were assessed for vitality and continued feeding capacity on pine specimens for a further eight weeks. The investigation showed within-colony variations to be small, but wide variations between colonies were revealed.


Keywords: TERMITES; AUSTRALIA; MOUND COLONIES; INTRASPECIFIC VARIABILITY; FEEDING CAPACITY; COPTOTERMES ACINACIFORMIS; BIOASSAYS; TESTING

Conference: 83-05-09/13 Surfers Paradise, Queensland, Australia


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