Intra- and Interspecific Territoriality in Nasutitermes (Isoptera: Termitidae) in a Panamanian Mangrove Forest

Abstract

(1) Direct observations of territorial interactions among termites have been prevented by their habit of foraging below ground or within wood. We mapped the foraging areas of Nasutitermes nigriceps and N. corniger (Isoptera: Termitidae) in a mangrove forest where nests and trails are conspicuous and limited to above-ground surfaces by tidal flooding. (2) Colonies were distributed in a mosaic of exclusively occupied foraging areas which fill nearly all available space. (3) When workers and soldiers from different colonies were placed together in laboratory tests, both castes fought and mortality was high. Workers and soldiers from different nests within a single colony combined without aggression. (4) When contact between neighbouring colonies was stimulated by placing bridges across the edges of foraging areas, intercolony aggression involving groups of soldiers and workers resulted in the divergence of trails or in nest mortality. (5) Thousands of workers and soldiers participate in naturally occurring battles. These are the first territorial encounters observed among mature termite colonies in undisturbed conditions. (6) The behavioural mechanisms and ecological effects of territory defence are analogous to those in territorial ants.