Light sensitivity in workers and soldiers of the Formosan subterranean termite, Coptotermes formosanus (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae)

Photosensitivity of the Formosan subterranean termite, Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki, was tested in workers, pre-soldiers, and soldiers of various ages. Responses leading to possible foraging behaviors under laboratory bioassay conditions were also determined in response to various light intensities. Whereas workers and pre-soldiers avoid light of all intensities, soldiers while avoiding the light attain a defensive posture by lining up their heads pointing toward the edge of the light source. The tunneling assay further showed that subterranean termites avoid light, and foraging in exposed areas is facilitated by the construction of an opaque mud screen.