Resource Detail

Title	Molting Process in the Formosan Subterranean Termite (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae)
Author	Xing, Lin; Chouvenc, Thomas; Su, Nan-Yao
Date	2013
Description	: This study describes the behavioral and histological changes that take place during ecdysis in the Formosan subterranean termite. The molting process was described in four distinct phases, starting with the peristaltic contraction of the abdomen to the complete shedding of the exuvium. Although individual termites still managed to go through the molting process when isolated from their nestmates, it required more time for the molting individual to complete the process than when aided by its nestmates. Histological observations were made on termites during the intermolt period, the premolting or fasting period, the pre-ecdysis and the ecdysis periods, and on newly molted individuals. Symbiotic protozoans were voided at the beginning of the premolting/fasting period.
Keywords	termite, molting,
URL	http://esa.publisher.ingentaconnect.com/content/esa/aesa/2013/00000106/00000005/art00009
Photograph	0
ID	7704