Association between the occurrence of mound-building termite in pasture with physical, chemical and biological characteristics of the soil

Abstract

The occurrence of mound-building termite Cornitermes cumulans (Kollar, 1832) (Termitidae) in pastures may be related to the chemical, physical and biological characteristics of the soil. However, little is known about these relationships. The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship of the occurrence of mound-building termite in pasture with the chemical, physical and biological characteristics of the soil. The number of mounds and their circumference (cm) and height (m) were evaluated in three subareas present in the same pasture area. Soil chemical, physical and biological analyses were performed. Soil acidity and texture do not interfere with the occurrence of mound-building termites in the pasture. The lower CO2 release in the soil contributes to a greater occurrence of mound-building termites and greater mound circumference. Therefore, it is important to improve the soil conditions in order to increase its biological activity and, consequently, to allow the development of microorganisms which reduce the development of mounds.