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ARS Home » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #160576
Title: SEMIOCHEMICALS OF TERMITE ORIGIN

Author
item Bland, John
item Raina, Ashok
item CARPITA, ADRIANO - UNIVERITY DI PISA, ITALY
item Park, Yong
item Osbrink, Weste

Submitted to: American Chemical Society Symposium Series
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: 2/16/2005
Publication Date: 2/25/2005
Citation: Bland, J.M., Raina, A.K., Carpita, A., Park, Y.I., Osbrink, W.L. 2005. Semiochemicals of termite origin. American Chemical Society Symposium Series Chapter 7, pp. 89-100.

Interpretive Summary: The Formosan subterranean termite is a major urban pest spreading across the southern states of the USA. To discover new biologically safe methods of controlling these pests, the chemicals termites use to communicate are being identified. This report describes the identification and quantitation of several termite chemicals. From these findings, researchers can better understand the processes used by termites and develop methods of controlling the Formosan subterranean termite.

Technical Abstract: The behavior of the Formosan subterranean termite, Coptotermes formosanus, is directed by a number of chemicals produced by members of various castes in the colony. We have investigated the semiochemicals produced by termites that are associated with behaviors such as species recognition (cuticular hydrocarbons), trail following (3,6,8-dodecatrien-1-ol), and tandem running or mating. These chemicals were isolated from the termite cuticle, sternal gland, and tergal gland. Compound identities, quantities, and species comparisons were examined.