Reproductive dynamics and colony structure of subterranean termites of thegenus Reticulitermes (Isoptera Rhinotermitidae): a review of the evidence from behavioral, ecological, and genetic studies

(1) In subterranean termites of the genus Reticulitermes, colonies are diff icult to delineate because physical nest structures are concealed or amorph ous, and colony boundaries are difficult to define. The ambiguity of colons architecture and the cryptic nesting and feeding habits of these ecologica lly and economically important termites hinder our understanding of their p opulation biology. We review and synthesize current information on Reticuli termes life history, reproduction, and genetics to develop an understanding of colony and population structure, and possible modes of reproductive org anization. (2) To infer colony structure, we simulate several breeding systems that mi ght be found in Reticulitermes and determine the F statistics and relatedne ss coefficients expected for groups of workers drawn from the simulated pop ulations. Available field data on the distribution of worker genotypes with in and among colonies are then used to distinguish between alternate hypoth eses regarding population and breeding structure in Reticulitermes. (3) Comparisons suggest that Reticulitermes colony structure ranges from si mple families with monogamous, alate-derived parents to complex, interconne cted nests containing numerous inbreeding neotenic reproductives. Patterns of colony organization may vary considerably depending upon species, colony size, habitat, and population. Inbreeding and complex colony structures ha ve also been documented in other termites and in some social Hymenoptera.