ISSN:
1420-9098
Keywords:
Key words: Social behaviour, polyethism, reproductives, Kalotermes flavicollis, Isoptera.
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Summary: An ethogram type study was performed on representative colonies of Kalotermes flavicollis to investigate the behavioural repertoires of replacement king and queen. Our observations suggested a sex-based behavioural specialisation in the two reproductives, affecting colony organisation and equilibrium. Interesting differences were detected in overall activity of the two reproductives, with the male showing the greatest frequency of movements in the nest, vibratory acts, and the highest rate and range of social contacts. In addition to his importance for periodical insemination of the queen, the king might also play a basic role in the social structure and dynamic development of the colony, as a “mediator” in social interactions between the queen and the other colony members.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s000400050131
Permalink