Effect on genetic diversity of the absence of intraspecies preference in 2 sympatric Reticulitermes termite species (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae).

ABSTRACT: The recombinant genotypes that can be produced when closely related species mate improve the genetic diversity of the population. Among closely related species, the link between interspecific reproduction behaviors and genetic diversity has barely been studied. Reticulitermes chinensis and R. flaviceps, which live close to each other, were used as research subjects in our study to find out how preferring conspecifics affects reproductive behavior between species. We discovered that neither R. chinensis nor R. flaviceps displayed preference behavior for conspecifics. Males of R. chinensis and R. flaviceps chased and groomed not only intraspecific females but also interspecific females. In a brief period of time, 2 mating behaviors, intra- and interspecific mating, were also observed. There

SUBMITTER: Wu J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10701473 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature