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Termites fumigate their nests with naphthalene

Author

Listed:
  • J. Chen

    (Louisiana Agricultural Experiment Station, Louisiana State University Agricultural Center)

  • G. Henderson

    (Louisiana Agricultural Experiment Station, Louisiana State University Agricultural Center)

  • C. C. Grimm

    (Southern Regional Research Center, Agricultural Research Service)

  • S. W. Lloyd

    (Southern Regional Research Center, Agricultural Research Service)

  • R. A. Laine

    (Louisiana State University)

Abstract

Termite nests provide a controlled environment and physical defence for the colonies of insects they house1. Another important factor involved in colony defence may be volatile chemicals present in the nest: we have found the hydrocarbon naphthalene in extracts of the nest material produced by Formosan subterranean termites. This is the first time naphthalene has been found naturally associated with any insect species.

Suggested Citation

  • J. Chen & G. Henderson & C. C. Grimm & S. W. Lloyd & R. A. Laine, 1998. "Termites fumigate their nests with naphthalene," Nature, Nature, vol. 392(6676), pages 558-559, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:nature:v:392:y:1998:i:6676:d:10.1038_33305
    DOI: 10.1038/33305
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