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

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.