Termite mound architecture regulates nest temperature and correlates with species identities of symbiotic fungi.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Large and complex mounds built by termites of the genus Macrotermes characterize many dry African landscapes, including the savannas, bushlands, and dry forests of the Tsavo Ecosystem in southern Kenya. The termites live in obligate symbiosis with filamentous fungi of the genus Termitomyces. The insects collect dead plant material from their environment and deposit it into their nests where indigestible cell wall compounds are effectively decomposed by the fungus. Above-ground mounds are built to enhance nest ventilation and to maintain nest interior microclimates favorable for fungal growth.

Objectives

In Tsavo Ecosystem two Macrotermes species associate with three different Termitomyces symbionts, always with a monoculture of one fung

SUBMITTER: Vesala R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6339472 | biostudies-literature | 2019

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature