Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community...
Transcript of Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community...
![Page 1: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/1.jpg)
![Page 2: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/2.jpg)
Structure and dynamicsStructure and dynamicsof an arboreal-nestingof an arboreal-nestingtermite community intermite community in
New-GuineaNew-Guineacoconut plantationscoconut plantations
![Page 3: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/3.jpg)
Why a semi-natural habitat ?Why a semi-natural habitat ?
![Page 4: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/4.jpg)
New-Guinea coconut plantationsNew-Guinea coconut plantations
largely occupiedlargely occupiedby arboreal-by arboreal-nesting termitesnesting termites
interspecificinterspecificexclusionexclusion
variousvariousplantationplantationpatternspatterns
![Page 5: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/5.jpg)
Community compositionCommunity compositionhalf of the trees are occupied by termiteshalf of the trees are occupied by termites
M. biroi M. biroi : : N. princeps N. princeps : : N. novarum-N. novarum-hebridarum hebridarum = = 8080 : : 1414 : : 66
Nasutitermes novarum-hebridarum
Nasutitermesprinceps
Microcerotermes biroi
% trees
no termites
termites
![Page 6: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/6.jpg)
Ressources exploitedRessources exploited
All 3 species useAll 3 species usethe coconutthe coconuttree as nestingtree as nestingsite and foodsite and foodsourcesource
dead palm leave covered with galleries
![Page 7: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/7.jpg)
Goals:Goals:
Community organization:Community organization:
Which ecological factors affect theWhich ecological factors affect thedistribution and abundance of termites ?distribution and abundance of termites ?
How do coexist agonistic colonies ?How do coexist agonistic colonies ?
What is the territoriality of theseWhat is the territoriality of thesearboreal-nesting termites ?arboreal-nesting termites ?
![Page 8: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/8.jpg)
OverviewOverview
Biology of the 3 speciesBiology of the 3 species
Response to the physical environmentResponse to the physical environment
Interspecific interactions betweenInterspecific interactions betweencoloniescolonies
Intraspecific interactions betweenIntraspecific interactions betweencoloniescolonies
PredationPredation
![Page 9: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/9.jpg)
Biology of the 3 speciesBiology of the 3 species
![Page 10: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/10.jpg)
mandibulate soldiers, 3% of mandibulate soldiers, 3% ofthe castesthe castes
29 nests with reproductives on29 nests with reproductives on1 ha1 ha
trees with: 1 nest (66%), 2trees with: 1 nest (66%), 2nests (27%), 3 nests (7%)nests (27%), 3 nests (7%)
1 colony extends on 1-3 trees1 colony extends on 1-3 trees
only 1 nest with reproductives,only 1 nest with reproductives,other nests = satellite nestsother nests = satellite nests
N. princeps galleries onlyN. princeps nest and galleriesroyal cell without reproductivesroyal cell with reproductivesM. biroi galleries onlyM. biroi nest and galleries
Biology of Biology of Microcerotermes biroiMicrocerotermes biroi:morphology, colony organizationmorphology, colony organization
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
ME
TE
RS
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100North
METERS
![Page 11: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/11.jpg)
84% of colonies84% of coloniesheaded byheaded bydealated imagosdealated imagos
orphaningorphaningexperiments:experiments:nymphoidsnymphoids(neotenics arised(neotenics arisedfrom nymphs),from nymphs),ergatoidsergatoids(neotenics arised(neotenics arisedfrom workers),from workers),NEVER adultoidsNEVER adultoids(alates)(alates)
Reproductives found in field coloniesReproductives found in field colonies
Biology of Microcerotermes biroi
Royal cell containing 1 imaginal queen
![Page 12: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/12.jpg)
16% of colonies16% of coloniesheaded byheaded bypolygynouspolygynousassociations ofassociations ofneotenics:neotenics:nymphoids,nymphoids,ergatoidsergatoids(replacement /(replacement /budding)budding)
reproduction:reproduction:mainly by mainly by nuptialnuptialflightsflights, buddingbuddingpossible but rarepossible but rare
nymph
queen
king
worker
5 mm
Nymphoids
Reproductives found in field coloniesReproductives found in field colonies
Biology of Microcerotermes biroi
![Page 13: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/13.jpg)
NestNestcasemate-like structurecasemate-like structure
Biology of Microcerotermes biroi
5 mm
chambers communicate by small orifices10 cm
worker
![Page 14: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/14.jpg)
nasute soldiersnasute soldiers(>10% of the(>10% of thecastes)castes)
pheromonal actionpheromonal actionof the soldiersof the soldiersdefensivedefensivesecretionsecretion
open nest structureopen nest structure
Biology of Biology of Nasutitermes princepsNasutitermes princeps
1 mm
![Page 15: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/15.jpg)
60% of colonies60% of coloniespolygynouspolygynous
neotenics:neotenics:adultoids oradultoids orpseudimagospseudimagos
long and shortlong and shortwinged alateswinged alates(microimagos)(microimagos)
reproduction byreproduction bybuddingbudding
Biology of Biology of Nasutitermes princepsNasutitermes princeps
5 mm
microimago
adultoid queens
![Page 16: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/16.jpg)
nasute soldiersnasute soldiers
no pheromonalno pheromonalaction of soldiersaction of soldiersdefensive secretiondefensive secretion
Biology of Biology of NasutitermesNasutitermesnovarumhebridarumnovarumhebridarum
workers and soldiers
![Page 17: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/17.jpg)
often on deadoften on deadtreestrees
open nestopen neststructurestructure
neotenics:neotenics:ergatoidsergatoids
colonies alwayscolonies alwaysmonogynousmonogynous
reproduction byreproduction byswarming flightsswarming flights
Biology of Biology of NasutitermesNasutitermesnovarumhebridarumnovarumhebridarum
imaginal queen
![Page 18: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/18.jpg)
Environmental influencesEnvironmental influences
![Page 19: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/19.jpg)
Environmental influences:Environmental influences:1. How community composition vary among 3 types of plantations ?1. How community composition vary among 3 types of plantations ?
OPENOPEN STANDARDSTANDARD SESEDENDEN
PlantationPlantation squaresquare sq. / trianglesq. / trianglepatternpattern 10 x 10 m10 x 10 m 8 - 9 m8 - 9 m
Tree heightTree height 25 -30 m25 -30 m +/- 13 m+/- 13 m 13 - 13 - 25 m25 m
Tree densityTree density < 100< 100
variablevariable
100 - 180100 - 180 180180 - 3 - 30000(tre(trees/ha)es/ha)
shade, food and nesting sites availability increases
![Page 20: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/20.jpg)
Proportion of trees occupied byProportion of trees occupied bytermitestermites
Environmental influences:Environmental influences:1.How community composition vary among 3 types of plantations ?1.How community composition vary among 3 types of plantations ?
TREES / HECTARE
0 100 200 3000.0
0.2
0.4
0.6
0.8
1.0
AR
BO
RE
AL
NE
ST
ING
TE
RM
ITE
SP
RO
PO
RT
ION
OF
TR
EE
S O
CC
UP
IED
BY
TYPE OF COCONUT PLANTATION:DENSESTANDARDOPEN
![Page 21: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/21.jpg)
Proportion of trees occupied by each termite speciesProportion of trees occupied by each termite species
Environmental influences: Environmental influences: 1. How community composition vary among 3 types of plantations ?1. How community composition vary among 3 types of plantations ?
OP
EN
ST
AN
DA
RD
DE
NS
E
OP
EN
ST
AN
DA
RD
DE
NS
E
0.00
0.05
0.10
0.15
OP
EN
ST
AN
DA
RD
DE
NS
E
PR
OP
OR
TIO
N O
F T
RE
ES
0.0
0.1
0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.7
0.8
![Page 22: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/22.jpg)
OP
EN
ST
AN
DA
RD
DE
NS
E
0
50
100
OP
EN
ST
AN
DA
RD
PLO
T X
VI
DE
NS
E
0
50
100
150
200
250
300
350
OP
EN
ST
AN
DA
RD
DE
NS
E
NE
ST
VO
LUM
E (
LIT
ER
S)
0
50
100
Environmental influence on nest volumeEnvironmental influence on nest volume
Environmental influences: Environmental influences: 1. How community composition vary among 3 types of plantations ?1. How community composition vary among 3 types of plantations ?
![Page 23: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/23.jpg)
Influence of direct sunlight on nest temperatureInfluence of direct sunlight on nest temperatureEnvironmental influences: Environmental influences: 2. Effect of environmental variables on termites ?2. Effect of environmental variables on termites ?
Microcerotermes biroi nestfullsun
pale
clouds
sun
HOUR OF THE DAY
0 6 12 18 0 6 12 18 0 6 12 18 0
TE
MP
ER
AT
UR
E (
CE
LS
IUS
)
20
25
30
35
40
45
50
cloudsrainheavy
0 6 12 18 0 6 12 18 0 6 12 18 0TE
MP
ER
AT
UR
E (
CE
LS
IUS
)
20
25
30
35
40
45
sunAPR 28 APR 29 APR 30 1994
APR 21 APR 22 APR 23 1994
nestNasutitermes princeps
![Page 24: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/24.jpg)
Tree heightTree height
Tree inclinationTree inclination
Tree conditionTree condition-- N. novarumhebridarum N. novarumhebridarum is 4 times moreis 4 times more
abundant on dead trees than on live onesabundant on dead trees than on live ones
RaintracksRaintracks-- M. biroi M. biroi tends to build its nests outside oftends to build its nests outside of
raintracksraintracks
Environmental influences: Environmental influences: 2. Effect of environmental variables on termites ?2. Effect of environmental variables on termites ?
Other variablesOther variables
![Page 25: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/25.jpg)
Interspecific interactionsInterspecific interactions
![Page 26: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/26.jpg)
Colony sizesColony sizes
100METERS
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90
ME
TE
RS
10
20
30
40
50
60
+
North
N. novarum-hebridarumN. princepsM. biroi
Interspecific interactionsInterspecific interactions
![Page 27: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/27.jpg)
Interspecific encountersInterspecific encounters
AlwaysAlwaysaggressiveaggressivebehavioursbehaviours
Interspecific interactionsInterspecific interactions
N. princepsN. princepssoldiersoldier
N. novarum-N. novarum-hebridarumhebridarumsoldiersoldier
N. princepsN. princepsworkerworker
N. novarum-N. novarum-hebridarumhebridarumworkerworker
![Page 28: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/28.jpg)
ME
TR
ES
0
50
100
150
+
+
1990 54 trees with M. biroi218 trees with N. princeps 5 trees with N. novarum- hebridarum
Large symbols = nestsSmall symbols = galleries
Dynamics of territorial interactions between Dynamics of territorial interactions between N. princeps N. princeps and and M. biroiM. biroi1. Natural expansion of 1. Natural expansion of N. princeps N. princeps coloniescolonies
![Page 29: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/29.jpg)
ME
TR
ES
0
50
100
150
+
+
1991 42 trees with M. biroi246 trees with N. princeps 5 trees with N. novarum- hebridarum
Large symbols = nestsSmall symbols = galleries
Dynamics of territorial interactions between Dynamics of territorial interactions between N. princeps N. princeps and and M. biroiM. biroi1. Natural expansion of 1. Natural expansion of N. princeps N. princeps coloniescolonies
![Page 30: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/30.jpg)
ME
TR
ES
0
50
100
150
1992 15 trees with M. biroi291 trees with N. princeps 6 trees with N. novarum- hebridarum
Large symbols = nestsSmall symbols = galleries
Dynamics of territorial interactions between Dynamics of territorial interactions between N. princeps N. princeps and and M. biroiM. biroi1. Natural expansion of 1. Natural expansion of N. princeps N. princeps coloniescolonies
![Page 31: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/31.jpg)
ME
TR
ES
0
50
100
150
+
+
1990 54 trees with M. biroi218 trees with N. princeps 5 trees with N. novarum- hebridarum
Large symbols = nestsSmall symbols = galleries
Dynamics of territorial interactions between Dynamics of territorial interactions between N. princeps N. princeps and and M. biroiM. biroi1. Natural expansion of 1. Natural expansion of N. princeps N. princeps coloniescolonies
![Page 32: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/32.jpg)
150
1990: current and past occupation by M. biroi
Plain symbols = trees occupied in May 1990Open symbols = trees occupied before May 1990
ME
TR
ES
0
50
100
Dynamics of territorial interactions between Dynamics of territorial interactions between N. princeps N. princeps and and M. biroiM. biroi1. Natural expansion of 1. Natural expansion of N. princeps N. princeps coloniescolonies
![Page 33: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/33.jpg)
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
ME
TR
ES
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
+
+
198432 trees with M. biroi68 trees with N. princeps02 trees with N. novarum- hebridarum
Large symbols = nestsSmall symbols = galleries
Dynamics of territorial interactions between Dynamics of territorial interactions between N. princeps N. princeps and and M. biroiM. biroi2. Experimental weakening of 2. Experimental weakening of N. princeps N. princeps coloniescolonies
![Page 34: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/34.jpg)
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
ME
TR
ES
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
+
+
+ +
+
198965 trees with M. biroi30 trees with N. princeps02 trees with N. novarum- hebridarum
Large symbols = nestsSmall symbols = galleries
Dynamics of territorial interactions between Dynamics of territorial interactions between N. princeps N. princeps and and M. biroiM. biroi2. Experimental weakening of 2. Experimental weakening of N. princeps N. princeps coloniescolonies
![Page 35: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/35.jpg)
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
ME
TR
ES
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100 +
+
+
+
+
199058 trees with M. biroi17 trees with N. princeps01 trees with N. novarum- hebridarum
Large symbols = nestsSmall symbols = galleries
Dynamics of territorial interactions between Dynamics of territorial interactions between N. princeps N. princeps and and M. biroiM. biroi2. Experimental weakening of 2. Experimental weakening of N. princeps N. princeps coloniescolonies
![Page 36: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/36.jpg)
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
ME
TR
ES
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100 +
+
+
+
199177 trees with M. biroi16 trees with N. princeps01 trees with N. novarum- hebridarum
Large symbols = nestsSmall symbols = galleries
Dynamics of territorial interactions between Dynamics of territorial interactions between N. princeps N. princeps and and M. biroiM. biroi2. Experimental weakening of 2. Experimental weakening of N. princeps N. princeps coloniescolonies
![Page 37: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/37.jpg)
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
ME
TR
ES
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
+
+
+
199287 trees with M. biroi24 trees with N. princeps00 trees with N. novarum- hebridarum
Large symbols = nestsSmall symbols = galleries
Dynamics of territorial interactions between Dynamics of territorial interactions between N. princeps N. princeps and and M. biroiM. biroi2. Experimental weakening of 2. Experimental weakening of N. princeps N. princeps coloniescolonies
![Page 38: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/38.jpg)
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
ME
TR
ES
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+199394 trees with M. biroi29 trees with N. princeps00 trees with N. novarum- hebridarum
Large symbols = nestsSmall symbols = galleries
Dynamics of territorial interactions between Dynamics of territorial interactions between N. princeps N. princeps and and M. biroiM. biroi2. Experimental weakening of 2. Experimental weakening of N. princeps N. princeps coloniescolonies
![Page 39: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/39.jpg)
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
ME
TR
ES
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+ 1994107trees with M. biroi30 trees with N. princeps00 trees with N. novarum- hebridarum
Large symbols = nestsSmall symbols = galleries
Dynamics of territorial interactions between Dynamics of territorial interactions between N. princeps N. princeps and and M. biroiM. biroi2. Experimental weakening of 2. Experimental weakening of N. princeps N. princeps coloniescolonies
![Page 40: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/40.jpg)
Occurence of direct interspecific contestsOccurence of direct interspecific contests
Offensive strategy of Offensive strategy of N. princepsN. princeps
M. biroi gallery under siege
N. princepsN. princeps
M. biroiM. biroi
![Page 41: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/41.jpg)
M. biroiM. biroi: dynamics of colonization: dynamics of colonizationM
ET
RE
S
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
area
not
map
ped
1990
![Page 42: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/42.jpg)
ME
TR
ES
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
area
not
map
ped
1992
10 % of the trees occupied by M. biroi
M. biroiM. biroi: dynamics of colonization: dynamics of colonization
![Page 43: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/43.jpg)
ME
TR
ES
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
area
not
map
ped
1993
40 % of the trees occupied by M. biroi
M. biroiM. biroi: dynamics of colonization: dynamics of colonization
![Page 44: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/44.jpg)
ME
TR
ES
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
area
not
map
ped
1994
63 % of the trees occupied by M. biroiM. biroi is a pionneer species
M. biroiM. biroi: dynamics of colonization: dynamics of colonization
![Page 45: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/45.jpg)
Intraspecific interactionsIntraspecific interactions
![Page 46: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/46.jpg)
agonism in 66-79% ofagonism in 66-79% ofpaired combinationspaired combinationstestedtested
group of 112 anagonistgroup of 112 anagonistN. princeps N. princeps nests:nests:supercolonysupercolony
no seasonal variationno seasonal variationof agonismof agonism
100 150
0
50
100
150A2
ANAGONISMANAGONISM
Intraspecific interactions
LaboratoryLaboratorybioassaysbioassays
![Page 47: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/47.jpg)
AA BB
AA BB
50 cm
results inresults insemi-naturalsemi-naturalconditionsconditionsconsistentconsistentwith resultswith resultsin laboratoryin laboratory
Intraspecific interactions
Confrontation ofConfrontation ofentire nestentire nestpopulationspopulations
1 m
![Page 48: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/48.jpg)
AA BB
50 cm
trailtraildivergencedivergencebetweenbetweenagonistagonistcoloniescolonies
trail fusiontrail fusionbetweenbetweenanagonistanagonistcolonies incolonies inlaboratorylaboratory
Intraspecific interactions
![Page 49: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/49.jpg)
PredatorsPredators
![Page 50: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/50.jpg)
Inquiline antsInquiline ants-- occasional predatorsoccasional predators
-- in 10% of in 10% of M. biroi M. biroi nestsnests
-- in 5% of in 5% of N. princeps N. princeps nestsnests
-- may coexist several years with the termitesmay coexist several years with the termites
Arboreal-nesting antsArboreal-nesting ants-- In spots heavily occupied byIn spots heavily occupied by
CrematogasterCrematogaster sp. A: termites 2x less sp. A: termites 2x lessabundantabundant
-- Coconut plantation: marginal habitat forCoconut plantation: marginal habitat forCrematogasterCrematogaster sp. A sp. A
Predators
![Page 51: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/51.jpg)
ConclusionsConclusions
![Page 52: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/52.jpg)
Coexistence of the 3 speciesCoexistence of the 3 species
Similar feeding habits and nesting sitesSimilar feeding habits and nesting sites
Asymmetries between the reproductiveAsymmetries between the reproductiveand defensive mode of the 3 species:and defensive mode of the 3 species:
M. biroi M. biroi invests in alate production, longinvests in alate production, longdistance colonizerdistance colonizer
N. princeps N. princeps invests in aggressivity, shortinvests in aggressivity, shortdistance colonizerdistance colonizer
N. novarumhebridarum N. novarumhebridarum specialized inspecialized inthe exploitation of dead trees, effectivethe exploitation of dead trees, effectivelong distance colonizerlong distance colonizer ./../.
![Page 53: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/53.jpg)
Why does N. princeps rarely becomes theWhy does N. princeps rarely becomes themost abundant species in the habitat ?most abundant species in the habitat ?
BuddingBudding
Requires dense habitat to develop largeRequires dense habitat to develop largecoloniescolonies
Coconut trees: unsuitable support forCoconut trees: unsuitable support forthe very large neststhe very large nests
Habitat preemption by Habitat preemption by M. biroiM. biroi
Coexistence of the 3 speciesCoexistence of the 3 species
![Page 54: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/54.jpg)
Factors affecting termiteFactors affecting termitedistribution and abundancedistribution and abundance
Habitat structureHabitat structure
Arboreal antsArboreal ants
Interspecific competitionInterspecific competition
Intraspecific competitionIntraspecific competition
Inquiline antsInquiline ants
![Page 55: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/55.jpg)
Factors affecting termiteFactors affecting termitedistribution and abundancedistribution and abundance
Habitat structureHabitat structure
Interspecific competitionInterspecific competition
Intraspecific competitionIntraspecific competition
Arboreal antsArboreal ants
Inquiline antsInquiline ants
![Page 56: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/56.jpg)
Ter
ritor
ialit
yT
errit
oria
lity
M. biroiM. biroiMonogynousMonogynous RareRare S / MS / M StaticStatic ----
QueenQueennumbernumber
BuddingBudding ColonyColonysizesize
WarfareWarfare PheromonalPheromonalaction of S FGSaction of S FGS
![Page 57: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/57.jpg)
Ter
ritor
ialit
yT
errit
oria
lity
M. biroiM. biroiMonogynousMonogynous RareRare S / MS / M StaticStatic ----
Small territories, iSmall territories, interdigitatenterdigitate
QueenQueennumbernumber
BuddingBudding ColonyColonysizesize
WarfareWarfare PheromonalPheromonalaction of S FGSaction of S FGS
5050M
ETR
ESM
ETR
ES
![Page 58: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/58.jpg)
Ter
ritor
ialit
yT
errit
oria
lity
M. biroiM. biroiMonogynousMonogynous RareRare S / MS / M StaticStatic ----
Small territories, iSmall territories, interdigitatenterdigitate
N. novarumhebridarumN. novarumhebridarumMonogynousMonogynous NeverNever MM MobileMobile NoNo
QueenQueennumbernumber
BuddingBudding ColonyColonysizesize
WarfareWarfare PheromonalPheromonalaction of S FGSaction of S FGS
5050M
ETR
ESM
ETR
ES
![Page 59: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/59.jpg)
Ter
ritor
ialit
yT
errit
oria
lity
M. biroiM. biroiMonogynousMonogynous RareRare S / MS / M StaticStatic ----
Small territories, iSmall territories, interdigitatenterdigitate
N. novarumhebridarumN. novarumhebridarumMonogynousMonogynous NeverNever MM MobileMobile NoNo
Small territorySmall territory
QueenQueennumbernumber
BuddingBudding ColonyColonysizesize
WarfareWarfare PheromonalPheromonalaction of S FGSaction of S FGS
5050M
ETR
ESM
ETR
ES
![Page 60: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/60.jpg)
Ter
ritor
ialit
yT
errit
oria
lity
M. biroiM. biroiMonogynousMonogynous RareRare S / MS / M StaticStatic ----
Small territories, iSmall territories, interdigitatenterdigitate
N. novarumhebridarumN. novarumhebridarumMonogynousMonogynous NeverNever MM MobileMobile NoNo
Small territorySmall territory
N. princepsN. princepsPolygynousPolygynous FrequentFrequent LL MobileMobile YesYes
QueenQueennumbernumber
BuddingBudding ColonyColonysizesize
WarfareWarfare PheromonalPheromonalaction of S FGSaction of S FGS
5050M
ETR
ESM
ETR
ES
![Page 61: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/61.jpg)
Ter
ritor
ialit
yT
errit
oria
lity
M. biroiM. biroiMonogynousMonogynous RareRare S / MS / M StaticStatic ----
Small territories, iSmall territories, interdigitatenterdigitate
N. novarumhebridarumN. novarumhebridarumMonogynousMonogynous NeverNever MM MobileMobile NoNo
Small territorySmall territory
N. princepsN. princepsPolygynousPolygynous FrequentFrequent LL MobileMobile YesYes
Large territoryLarge territory
QueenQueennumbernumber
BuddingBudding ColonyColonysizesize
WarfareWarfare PheromonalPheromonalaction of S FGSaction of S FGS
5050M
ETR
ESM
ETR
ES
![Page 62: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/62.jpg)
Ter
ritor
ialit
yT
errit
oria
lity
M. biroiM. biroiMonogynousMonogynous RareRare S / MS / M StaticStatic ----
Small territories, iSmall territories, interdigitatenterdigitate
N. novarumhebridarumN. novarumhebridarumMonogynousMonogynous NeverNever MM MobileMobile NoNo
Small territorySmall territory
N. princepsN. princepsPolygynousPolygynous FrequentFrequent LL MobileMobile YesYes
Large territoryLarge territoryXLXL
SupercoloniesSupercolonies
QueenQueennumbernumber
BuddingBudding ColonyColonysizesize
WarfareWarfare PheromonalPheromonalaction of S FGSaction of S FGS
0
50
ME
TR
ES
![Page 63: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/63.jpg)
Ter
ritor
ialit
yT
errit
oria
lity
M. biroiM. biroiMonogynousMonogynous RareRare S / MS / M StaticStatic ----
Small territories, iSmall territories, interdigitatenterdigitate
N. novarumhebridarumN. novarumhebridarumMonogynousMonogynous NeverNever MM MobileMobile NoNo**
idem: idem: N. ephratae, N. ephratae, * variable composition* variable composition Small territorySmall territory
N. princepsN. princepsPolygynousPolygynous FrequentFrequent LL MobileMobile YesYes**
idem: idem: N. costalisN. costalis, * stable composition, * stable composition Large territoryLarge territoryXLXL
idem:idem: N. polygynus, N. corniger N. polygynus, N. corniger SupercoloniesSupercolonies
QueenQueennumbernumber
BuddingBudding ColonyColonysizesize
WarfareWarfare PheromonalPheromonalaction of S FGSaction of S FGS
0
50
ME
TR
ES
![Page 64: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/64.jpg)
Ter
ritor
ialit
yT
errit
oria
lity
M. biroiM. biroiMonogynousMonogynous RareRare S / MS / M StaticStatic ----
Small territories, iSmall territories, interdigitatenterdigitate
N. novarumhebridarumN. novarumhebridarumMonogynousMonogynous NeverNever MM MobileMobile NoNo**
idem: idem: N. ephratae, N. ephratae, * variable composition* variable composition Small territorySmall territory
N. princepsN. princepsPolygynousPolygynous FrequentFrequent LL MobileMobile YesYes**
idem: idem: N. costalisN. costalis, * stable composition, * stable composition Large territoryLarge territoryXLXL
idem:idem: N. polygynus, N. corniger N. polygynus, N. corniger SupercoloniesSupercolonies
Territory: related to colony sizeTerritory: related to colony size+ to reproductive and defensive strategies+ to reproductive and defensive strategies
QueenQueennumbernumber
BuddingBudding ColonyColonysizesize
WarfareWarfare PheromonalPheromonalaction of S FGSaction of S FGS
0
50
ME
TR
ES
![Page 65: Structure and dynamics of an arboreal-nesting termite community incb.naturalsciences.be/ants/pdf_free/_ThesisVer2003.pdf · Similar feeding habits and nesting sites Asymmetries between](https://reader033.fdocuments.in/reader033/viewer/2022052023/6038d6c637d55730a872c236/html5/thumbnails/65.jpg)