Publication Type

Journal Article

Journal Name

Journal of Insect Physiology

Publication Date

1-1-1982

Abstract

Correlations were established between corpora allata and prothoracic gland activities, changes in fresh weights and competence period for soldier formation in a higher termite species, Macrotermes michaelseni. There was a time-course differential increase in fresh weights observed in pairs of female third (final)-instar larvae of the same age previously adopted by a pair of female reproductives from incipient colonies. A bimodal distribution of these larvae according to weights was evident from the first day of the instar. Heavier larvae were associated with higher corpora allata and prothoracic gland volumes (activities), and differentiation into presoldiers, while lighter larvae had considerably less-active corpora allata and prothoracic glands and developed into workers. The peak in the activities of these glands in both cases marked the end of the competence period. The chain of events that may precede caste differentiation is discussed briefly and the significance of the findings outlined. © 1982.

Keywords

caste differentiation, competence period, corpora allata, ecdysone, juvenile hormone, larvae, Macrotermes michaelseni, presoldiers, prothoracic glands, workers

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