Distribution and Natural Habitat of the Invasive Termite species Reticulitermes urbis in the Balkans (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae)

International audienceSubterranean termites of the genus Reticulitermes are the most abundant termites in Europe. They play an important role in natural forest ecosystems but they are also significant pests that feed on wooden structures and buildings. Reticulitermes urbis Bagnères et al 2003, reported as invasive in West Europe, is a recently described species that has been found over the last few years in France, Italy, Greece and Croatia. Greece and Croatia seem to be closer to the origin of the species. This is the first report of the occurrence of R urbis in Bosnia-Herzegovina and Montenegro. The species was identified using nuclear DNA ITS2 sequences and morphological characteristics. The Dalmatian coast from Croatia to Montenegro is a potential natural habitat for the specie