Spatial distribution of termite-nests of Cornitermes Snyderi (Isoptera: Termitidae) and its association with teak

Abstract

The objectives of this study was identify the termite species, assess the relationship of the occurrence of nests with Tectona grandis (teak) and its possible damage caused by this association, being determined the type of spatial distribution of nests in the studying area. This work was conducted in the municipality of Porto Esperidião, State of Mato Grosso, Brazil, in the teak plantation with 581,27 ha. The nests were placed with a GPS (Global Positioning System), for further assessment of population distribution, according to the Morisita index. The nests were quantified in different altitudes classes. It was also evaluated the number of nests found in trees and regrowth in and out of trees, as well as the influence of these nests in tree growth. The termites found were identify as Cornitermes snyderi. The nests do not affect the growth in relation to the circumference at breast height of tree. The spatial distribution of termites in the planting is pooled, binomial negative. I was not observed damage in trees surrounded by nests.