Use of dyed matrix in bait stations for determining foraging territories of subterranean termites (Isoptera:Rhinotermitidae:Reticulitermes spp. and termitidae:Amitermes wheeleri)

摘要

A method is described for determining foraging territories of subterranean termites in the field through the use of a bait matrix impregnated with dye markers (Nile Blue A, 0.1% wt/wt; Neutral Red, 0.5% wt/ wt) placed inside commercial monitoring/baiting stations (Sentricon Termite Colony,Elimination System) or bucket stations. The method is useful at field sites for research related to the inter-colony interactions or baiting systems where the identity of different colonies and their foraging territories is important. The technique has been validated for Reticulitermes flavipes (9 colonies), R. virginicus ( 1 colony), and Amitermes wheeleri (2 colonies) in Texas. Termites readily feed on the dyed matrix in the field and quickly acquire a very visible mark, which may persist for long periods. Dyed termites move quickly to other stations that are part of the same foraging territory (30-90 days). Based on spatial and temporal patterns of dye markers superimposed on the overall pattern of activity at study sites, termites bearing the dye markers are apparently moving throughout the entire foraging territory of individual colonies. Unlike standard mark-release,recapture methods this technique does not permit an estimate of numbers of foraging individuals in the colony. Advantages of this method are: 1. Handling of termites is reduced to a minimum. 2. Access to a laboratory is not required. 3. The process is less labor intensive than mark-release-recapture techniques. 4. Site visits can be kept to monthly intervals (or longer). 5. With the exception of the specially prepared dyed matrix, the procedure can be done entirely with the use of standard commercial components or with a variety of previously described monitoring systems.