NEMATODES WITH PEST-FIG POTENTIAL IDENTIFIED: Formosan subterranean termites' brains are being invaded by a species of roundworms

摘要

Formosan subterranean termites could be in for a real headache. U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) scientists have identified a species of roundworms, or "nematodes," that invade the termites' brains and offer a potential bio-based approach to controlling them. Other nematodes that were identified invaded tarantula brains. The Formosan termite, a non-native species from Asia, feeds on cellulose from the heartwood of trees, the wood support beams of buildings and other sources. It causes an estimated $1 billion annually in U.S. damages, repairs and control costs.