Feeding Preference of Vexatious Microtermes obesi (Wheat Termite) (Blattodea: Termitidae)

Abstract

Background and Objective: Microtermes obesi is a termite species extensively present throughout Pakistan and causes detrimental effects on standing trees, crops and timbers. In this study, the feeding preferences of M. obesi for 16 different wood species were determined through choice trials under natural field conditions. Materials and Methods: In choice field trials, different combinations of wooden blocks were used to determine wood consumption by M. obesi. Wood weight loss, consumption and rate of survival of different wooden species were calculated. Results: Cordia myxa was found to be the most susceptible wood species and Cassia fistula the most resistant one. Sixteen different wood combinations were used under choice field conditions, maximum feeding was recorded in Cordia myxa and Moringa oleifera (39.15-33.00 g). Though, minimum feeding was noted in C. fistula (1.41 g) and Heterophragma adenophyllum (24.38 g). Under choice natural field conditions, minimum feeding was recorded in C. fistula (1.41 g) and maximum feeding in Cordia myxa (39.15 g). Feeding preference in descending order were as follows: