Diversification of termites driven by the evolution of symbiosis and sociality

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1 Biogeographical distribution of termitesThe molecular phylogeny of termites suggests that the Rhinotermitidae are not mono-phyogenetic, and that Macrotermitinae have evolved most anciently among higher termites. The molecular phylogeny of the Rhinotermitidae were also examined in relation to the phylogeny of symbiotic protozoa and biogeography. Based on the faunal study of the distribution of termites, an hypothesis that higher termites evolved not in the forest but in the savanna.2 Evolution of symbiosisThe evolutionary process of the symbiosis from lower termites to higher termites was examined in relation to nitrogen-fixing ability and cellulose decomposition system. The lower termites produce cellulase by themselves, although symbiotic protozoa also produce cellulase. The nitrogen fixing ability was high in the wood feeders of lower termites but low in soil-feeders of higher termites.3.Ecological role of termites in ecosystemThe methane emission by various species of termites was examined. The rate was very high in the soil feeding termites.4.SynthesisThe Synthesis on the diversification of termites driven by the evolution of symbiosis and sociality was done in the book edited by Abe, T., Levin, S.& Higashi, M.(1996) : Biodiversity, Springer.