2020 International Branch Virtual Symposium April 27-29

Self-organized subterranean architectures, wood excavation dynamics and nest constructions in two Reticulitermes termite species

Laurence Berville  & Eric Darrouzet

Composed of networks of tunnels and chambers, collective constructions are marvels of complexity. Nevertheless, as nests are built in the soil or within pieces of wood, studying subterranean construction is problematic without using invasive techniques. For those reasons, nest-building dynamics and wood consumption dynamics are largely unknown for Reticulitermes subterranean termite species. Nowadays, using computerized tomography (CT) scans, it is possible to reconstruct a 3D structure via a series of 2D images, without harm for the inhabitants.

Although the two species displayed some similarities, only R. flavipes built interior structures with soil particles. R. flavipes seemed to have the ability to generate and modify interior architectural structures such as pillars, ceilings/ floors, tunnels, and inner/outer walls. Some of these structures changed over time and thus might play a role in the trade-off between wood consumption, colony protection, and environmental homeostasis. This study underscores the utility of CT scans as a non-invasive technique for following wood consumption and nest architecture in termites over time.

Using CT scans and imaging software, we observed nest creation, constructions, and architecture of two subterranean termite species. We monitor, over a 10 month period, the nests’ growth built by R. grassei, a species native to Europe, and R. flavipes, an invasive species introduced from North America. Doing so, we wanted to know whether the construction of the nest could participate to the invasive success of R. flavipes.

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