THE BLACK-MOUND TERMITE OF THE CAPE, AMITERMES ATLANTICUS FULLER

Abstract

This paper deals with the establishment, growth and structure of the mound of Amitermes atlanticus Fuller, a species of termite found in the south-west Cape. The annual cycle of activities is described, as well as the development of the various castes. The macropterous, brachypterous and apterous reproductives are described, and the part they play in the economy of the mound. The life history of a new genus and species of dipterous parasite, Termitometopia skaifei Zumpt, is dealt with and a brief description of the parasitic mites found in the nests of this termite is given. An experiment is described, together with the apparatus used, to determine the relationship between temperature and speed of movement of these termites, as well as the limits of temperature between which they are active. Finally, there is a short discussion of the different theories of caste differentiation among termites and the writer comes to the conclusion that the weight of evidence supports the theory of extrinsic causes.