Polymorphism and the role of hormones in caste differentiation of a higher termite species macrotermes michaeseni isoptera, macrotermitinae

Abstract

Termites are social insects of the order Isoptera. They are predaninant in the Tropics and dwell in dry or damp wood, underground in soil or in mounds or nest in trees. The basic food source for termites are cellulose materials like wood, grass etc. As a result of this, they pose a threat to mankind by being destructive to timber, buildings, boats and ships, forests, pastures, crops etc. Termites may also help in recycling organic materials in the soil . It becomes apparent, therefore, that some control masures need to be taken to regulate termite populations in an ecosystem in order to coexist with them. These cannot be achieved without the understanding of their biology. The present study was therefore designed to answer some basic questions regarding development and caste differentiation of a representative species of the Termitioc.e, one of the least studied families of the Isoptera predominant in Ethiopian Region. '!be basic questions posed were those regarding polymorphisn and the mechanisms of caste formation. I will start by giving definitions of sane fundamental terms used throughout the thesis. I will then outline the basic views of key authors which are related to the questions which I have addressed