| The phylogenetically-derived Neotropical termite Nasutitermes corniger is known for its facultatively polygamous mating strategy. It has been hypothesized that these associations of multiple unrelated queens and kings come about through pleometrosis, a process of group colony foundation well-studied in the social Hymenoptera, but virtually unexplored in the termites. To better understand the dynamics of colony foundation, and in particular the costs and benefits of pleometrosis compared to monogamy, experimental incipient colonies were established in conjunction with field observations and choice trials under semi-natural conditions. The results presented in this dissertation suggest no clear benefit of pleometrotic colonies over those established by monogamous pairs in founder survival, colony growth, disease resistance, or efficient division of labor. A genetic basis for tolerance of more than a single queen and king is suggested by the data, however. Under certain ecological circumstances, and for individuals from particular parental colonies, group colony foundation may carry a heavy survival cost, compared to the typical monogamous mating strategy. Low rates of pleometrosis in the field, and potential costs highlighted by laboratory experiments, suggest that mature polygamous colonies of this species come about through fusion of incipient colonies after they have passed through a bottleneck of early mortality and before establishing a permanent arboreal nest. |
