Behavioural differences between male and female replacement reproductives in Kalotermes flavicollis (Isoptera, Kalotermitidae)

Citation
L. Maistrello et G. Sbrenna, Behavioural differences between male and female replacement reproductives in Kalotermes flavicollis (Isoptera, Kalotermitidae), INSECT SOC, 46(2), 1999, pp. 186-191
Citations number
19
Categorie Soggetti
Entomology/Pest Control
Journal title
INSECTES SOCIAUX
ISSN journal
00201812 → ACNP
Volume
46
Issue
2
Year of publication
1999
Pages
186 - 191
Database
ISI
SICI code
0020-1812(1999)46:2<186:BDBMAF>2.0.ZU;2-9
Abstract
An ethogram type study was performed on representative colonies of Kaloterm es flavicollis to investigate the behavioural repertoires of replacement ki ng and queen. Our observations suggested a sex-based behavioural specialisa tion in the two reproductives, affecting colony organisation and equilibriu m. Interesting differences were detected in overall activity of the two rep roductives, with the male showing the greatest frequency of movements in th e 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 deve lopment of the colony, as a "mediator" in social interactions between the q ueen and the other colony members.