Energy consumption of termite colonies of Nasutitermes ephratae (Isoptera : Termitidae)

Measurements of CO, production of whole termite colonies showed that respir ation intensity varies slightly during the daily cycle, that the relation b etween standard metabolism and colony size is best described with a negativ e exponential, taking into account the proportion of the various castes. La rger colonies were more efficient in their energy use, suggesting that ener getic considerations may contribute in explaining the maintenance in evolut ion of complex societies. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Inc.