Studies on Subterranean Termites of Toru-Orua: A University Community in Bayelsa State, Southern Nigeria

ABSTRACT

Termites are a major menace to man and society causing great havoc to food and agriculture, building materials and household furniture; and total depletion of people’s sources of livelihood. This study aimed at determining the species composition and prevalence of Subterranean termites within the University community at Toru-Orua; as well as the microflora diversity facilitating cellulose digestion in termite guts. The study area was split into ten (10) zones for easy data management and painstaking investigations. Field samplings and laboratory analysis of collected termite specimens by use of a stereo-microscope were undertaken between February and March 2022. Three (3) main termite species, namely Globitermes, Discupitermes and Armitermes respectively (in that order of abundance/importance) were identified as predominant termites in this study area. The microbiological investigations revealed presence of cellulolytic bacteria in termite guts and thus seemed the potential agents facilitating cellulose digestion for the termites. However, the limited time-frame for this project, plus other financial logistic problems did not allow for exact identification of these microbes. More detailed and diagnostic work would follow shortly to provide specific information on the microflora diversity; and also, on the possible relationship between mound types and termite species. This study is a pioneering work on termites in Toru-Orua and even Bayelsa State as a whole; it will serve as a baseline study and also guide strategic plannings for effective termite control/management in the State and for the entire Niger Delta, in the near future.