Chemical ecology

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

12-27-2023

Abstract

Te Formosan subterranean termites, Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki, live in colonies with a division of labor among castes. Teir social activities are organized through sophisticated interactions among colony members, and colony function relies on detecting environmental risks and resources. Coptotermes formosanus termites produce and perceive a variety of chemicals for social organization and defense, highlighting the importance of chemical communication in their ecological adaptation. Te sex and trail pheromones, which share the same major component, have been characterized in this species. Many glandular and cuticular compounds have been investigated, but biological activities are not fully determined. Additionally, several semiochemicals associated with pathogens and food resources have been identified to regulate termite behavior in disease resistance and foraging. This chapter reviews the semiochemicals, chemically mediated behaviors, and chemosensory mechanisms in C. formosanus and discusses outstanding questions to be addressed in the future.

Publication Source (Journal or Book title)

Biology and Management of the Formosan Subterranean Termite and Related Species

First Page

127

Last Page

143

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