Richness of termite genera in a semi-arid region (Sertao) in NE Brazil (Isoptera)

The genus richness of the termite fauna of a semiarid area (caatinga) in No rtheastern Brazil was investigated in the dry season of 1996 and the rainy season of 1998, Eight genera belonging to three termite families (Termitida e, Rhinotermitidae and Kalotermitidae) were found in assessments of termite nests and mounds, investigation of dead wood, and cardboard baits buried 1 0 cm deep in the soil. The nest-builder guild was represented by only three genera: Nasutitermes, Constrictotermes and Microcerotermes. Their density (about 1-3 nests ha(-1)) was very low. In mounds of Constrictotermes, the g enus Inquilinitermes is almost invariably found as an inquiline. During the dry season of 1996, wood-inhabiting Kalotermitidae (Neotermes sp.) were ab undant in dead branches still attached to the trees. In dead wood on the gr ound we recorded Heterotermes of the Rhinotermitidae, and Amitermes and Ter mes of the Termitidae. A relatively high activity of Heterotermes on the ba its was recorded within 3 months of exposure. Thus, this site is characteri zed by a very low genus diversity of termites; nest builders are rare, but soil- and wood-dwelling species are highly active in spite of the adverse c onditions (drought) which reign during the larger part of the year.