Artigos

Abstract

Termites are a dominant group of insects in most terrestrial ecosystems in the tropics. Despite their importance, few studies on Isoptera have been conducted in most regions, as is the case of the Northeast of Brazil. This research aimed to assess the species composition of termites in forested areas in João Pessoa, State of Paraíba with data on the microhabitats where they are found, their feeding habits, and their ecological importance as detritivore organisms. We found 43 species (or "morphospecies") in an area of 4,000 m2, this number being similar to those found in small areas of other foested regions of the country. Only 12% of the collected morphospecies were identifiedand represent new records for the region. Most of the other forms (67-88%) possibly repesent undescribed species, and Heterotermes sp. was the most common. Most termites were found to feed mainly on wood of the litter layer. The number ol inhabited nests was approximately of 157/ha, and the number of individuals/m2 in the soil was 1,077.

Keywords: Isoptera, faunistic composition, diversity, feeding habit, Atlantic Forest,Northeast Brazil.

Descitores: Isoptera,  composição  faunística,  diversidade,  hábito alimentar, Mata AtlÂntica, Nordeste do Brasil.