Transfer of labelled aminoacids between species of different families of Isoptera (Rhinotermitidae and Kalotermitidae)

Abstract

The possibility of trophallactic exchanges between Reticulitermes lucifugus and Kalotermes flavicollis was studied with radioactive tracers (tritiated amino acids). R. lucifugus' nymphs and workers were labelled per os and then made to live together with K. flavicollis' nymphs and pseudergates. The radioactivity of the midgut and hindgut, isolated with their contents while avoiding outer contamination, was taken as a parameter.

After 4 days of living together the radioactive substance had been transferred in large amounts to all but one K. flavicollis individual.

Thus, we have demonstrated that, at least in experimental conditions, trophallaxis can exist between species of Isoptera belonging to different families.

KEY WORDS:

• Isoptera
• interspecific trophallaxis