Physicochemical parameters of arboreal nests of Constrictotermes cavifrons (Holmgren, 1910) (Blattaria: Isoptera) in the Western Amazon

Abstract

Termites are a diverse and abundant group of insects that play an important role in the ecological balance of various Amazonian systems. However, there is limited information available about their ecology, biology, and the physical and chemical composition of the materials present in the nests of the C. caviforns species. Therefore, this work aims to expand knowledge about ecological aspects and analyze the differences in the physical-chemical parameters of termite mounds when compared to the adjacent soil. The study was carried out on 1.0 ha of primary terra-firme forest, belonging to FAEX-UFAM, located in the Manaus-AM region. Ecological variables and samples from termite mounds and adjacent soils were collected to analyze the physicochemical parameters. Four nests/ha were found, attached to tree trunks at an average of 3.55 m above the ground and with an average volume of 0.026 m³. Among the physical parameters, the concentration of OM in termite mounds was much higher than in adjacent soils. Additionally, the chemical and physical-chemical parameters of termite mounds are much higher as well as the averages are significantly different compared to those in adjacent soils.