The inoculation of the fungus comb in newly founded colonies of some species of the Macrotermitinae (Isoptera) from Nigeria

Summary

The critical factor in the survival of newly-founded colonies of the fungus-growing termites (Macrotermitinae) is the successful inoculation of the new comb with the fungus Termitomyces. At least two methods have evolved within the subfamily, which appear to be mutually exclusive. Namely, inoculation by carriage of conidia by reproductive alates (Macrotermes bellicosus, 5 species of Microtermes) and collection of basidiospores by foraging workers (3 species of Ancistrotermes, Macrotermes subhyalinus, 2 species of Odontotermes). Basidiocarps, associated with five of these species have been recorded in the Nigerian savanna and although uncommon, the timing of their appearance is closely geared to the requirements of new colonies for basidiospores.