Effects of Trichoderma virens fungus on the feeding behaviors of subterranean termites (Reticulitermes virginicus) Isoptera : Rhinotermitidae
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abstract
Soil-borne fungi often utilize the cellulose of termite baiting systems as a food source, thus altering termite interactions with the bait. This situation ultimately compromises the bait's efficacy. The research presented here focused on how feeding behaviors of Reticulitermes virginicus Banks were affected by the fungus Trichoderma, virens Miller, Giddens & Foster von Arx. Tests were performed with 'P' (Tv11c165) and 'Q' (Gv29-8) strains of T. virens. Extracts removed from the Gv29-8 strain on days 6 and 7 of incubation inhibited termite feeding significantly when compared to the controls (16% and 54% less area loss, respectively). A subsequent feeding assay testing the influence of gliotoxin on termite feeding failed to show any significant differences among treatments and controls. Wood disks covered by live T. virens mycelia had significantly less area consumed (35%) due to termite feeding than did the controls. Wood disks vacuum impregnated with homogenate from either strain did not have significant differences in area loss due to termite feeding. Overall results reiterated the plasticity that can exist with termite-fungal interactions.
