RESEARCH

The Structural Urban IPM Laboratory research program has two major components:

  1. Basic research focuses on life history traits and ecological factors which may have fostered the evolution of termite societies and their reproductive division of labor, and

  2. Applied research, using knowledge of the basic biology and behavior of termites to develop and assess control strategies that precisely target the economically important subterranean termites, and that minimize the use of pesticides in and around structures. This line of research is described briefly below:

THE ECOLOGICAL AND ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE OF TERMITES

All termites are social insects. They live in colonies that can number over a million individuals, each member accomplishing tasks that, in concert, contribute to a robust, adaptable, and productive society. Termite colonies are fueled by a worker force capable of consuming wood, roots, grass, or processed cellulose materials. As decomposers of wood and other vegetation, termites play an essential role in recycling elemental nutrients and in increasing organic matter and aeration in soils.

loads of termites
Subterranean termites; genus: Reticulitermes
(Click on thumbnail to view larger image)

Against this framework of respect for a remarkably exquisite and biologically unique group of insects, however, is the reality that termites cause well over a billion dollars in damage annually in the United States. Wood, the principal component of a termite diet, is a valuable commodity in world commerce, and a prominent structural element of homes and buildings in North America. A termite infestation in one's home is at the very least irritating and disturbing, and can at worst be distressingly persistent and destructive.

termite swarmers (alates)
Subterranean termite swarmers (alates)
(Click on thumbnail to view larger image)

By understanding the biology and habits of these insects we can more effectively prevent, detect, and control termites. That is the focus of applied research in the Thorne Lab at the University of Maryland, College Park.

SPECIFIC APPLIED RESEARCH PROJECTS IN PROGRESS IN DR. THORNE'S LABORATORY:

  • Field and laboratory research on the colony organization, foraging, and reproductive dynamics of subterranean termite colonies

  • Efficacy tests of termiticides and termite baits, including studies of implementation and reduction of the use of pesticides around structures

  • Taxonomic and life history differences among North American Reticulitermes (subterranean termites)

  • Assessment of chemical-free method for detection and control of head lice infestations


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    		Reticulitermes Queen
    Founding queen, subterranean termite;
    genus: Reticulitermes
    (Click thumbnail to view larger image)     		  Reticulitermes with Neotenics
    Replacement reproductives (neotenics);
    genus: Reticulitermes
    (Click on thumbnail to view larger image)


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