Population Density and Biomass of the Desert Termite Gnathamitermes Tubiformans (Isoptera: Termitidae) in a Shortgrass Prairie: Relationship to Temperature and Moisture

Ueckert, Darrell N.; Bodine, Michael C.; Spears, Brian M.

Population Density and Biomass of the Desert Termite Gnathamitermes Tubiformans (Isoptera: Termitidae) in a Shortgrass Prairie: Relationship to Temperature and Moisture

1976

Ueckert, Darrell N. | Bodine, Michael C. | Spears, Brian M.

Fluctuations in the population density and biomass of Gnathamitermes tubiformans (Buckley) in the upper 30.2 cm of soil were determined over a 2—yr period in a shortgrass community in Garza County, Texas. Linear stepwise multiple regression was used to determine the relationships of termite population densities with environmental factors in this soil increment. Termites were not present in the upper 30.2 cm when the soil temperature at 15 cm was < 9 degrees C. Termite population densities in the upper 30.2 cm of soil varied significantly between years as a function of air and soil temperatures, precipitation and soil moisture. Consideration of data from relatively short time periods alleviated many difficulties in identifying biologically important causal factors. In a year of above—normal precipitation, temperature was the most important factor affecting desert termite population densities, whereas during a year of below—normal precipitation, soil moisture was the most important factor. Biomass of desert termites in the upper 30.2 cm of soil averaged 5.83 g/m² (live—weight) over the 2—yr period and reached a peak of 23.03 g/m² during September 1972. The abundance of tunnels and chambers of G. tubiformans decreased with depth in the soil profile. Termites migrated below 124 cm in subterranean galleries to avoid soil temperatures < 10 degrees C.

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