Termite assemblages across an anthropogenic disturbance gradient at the Sakaerat Biospher Reserve, Nakhon Ratchasima Province, Thailand

Abstract

Termite communities serve as environmental indicators of the effects of agricultural practices and forest trees. A little knowledge is required to report termite assemblages across an anthropogenic disturbance gradient in Thailand. This study aimed to investigate the distribution pattern of termites across an anthropogenic disturbance gradient from natural forest areas to adjacent agricultural areas. Termites were sampled using a subterranean trap baited with baits and direct sampling along three transects of 50 m x 2 m²in three continuous habitats: an agricultural area (AA), a forest area (FA), and an ecotone (ET).
In total, 16 termite species in 12 genera belonging to 4 subfamilies were found at the study sites.
There were no significant differences in termite richness among the study sites during either the wet or dry season (p > 0.05). Microcerotermes crassus was the dominant termite species, as indicated by a larger value in frequency of occurrence with 100% in ET and FA, and 89% in AA. Principal component analysis revealed that the presence of Globitermes sulphureus and M. crassus was associated with increased soil moisture content. Our findings suggest that all mound-building termites and most of the fungus-growing termite species do not persist in areas of relatively high human disturbance (AA, ET). These distribution patterns of termites could reduce ecosystem services at AA and ET, particularly by decreasing enhanced nutrient availability for soil ecosystems.