Host Selection in Subterranean Termites: Factors Affecting Choice (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae)

The effects of block size and species on preference were examined for the subterranean termite Reticulitermes sp. (Rhinotermitidae) in choice and no-choice tests. Termites significantly preferred Douglas fir over Ponderosa pine and red oak, irrespective of block size. The less-preferred woods were eaten in large amounts in no-choice tests, and all three woods appeared to be favorable for the termites and their gut protozoans. In single species tests, termites ate significantly more from larger blocks of Douglas fir, but ate similar amounts from large and small blocks of Ponderosa Pine and red oak. These results suggest that several factors can influence host choice, but that they vary in importance depending on the availability of other foods