Research Article | Published: 01 March 1994

Nutritional Significance of Moss for Termite Odontotermes distans Holmgren and Holmgren and O. obesus (Ramb.)

S. C. Mishra

Indian Journal of Forestry | Volume: 17 | Issue: 1 | Page No. 41-45 | 1994
DOI: https://doi.org/10.54207/bsmps1000-1994-XN84P1 | Cite this article

Abstract

Moss feeding by the termite Odontotermes distans and O. obesus was recorded. The chemical composition of moss shows that cellulose constitute 13.0-15.4%, hemicelluloses group 26.8-30.8%, simple sugar 8.5-14.7%, hot water soluble components 8.4-13.0%, lignin like compound 25.3-33.4%, fats, oils, resins, etc., 1.4-3.8% and nitrogen 1.42-1.65%. The major components of moss and other common food of termites (e.g. decaying wood, dead bark, dung) had close similarity in their chemical composition and suitability of moss as termites food. In view of nutritional suitability, moss is not the food of choice of other termite species.

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How to cite

Mishra, S.C., 1994. Nutritional Significance of Moss for Termite Odontotermes distans Holmgren and Holmgren and O. obesus (Ramb.). Indian Journal of Forestry, 17(1), pp.41-45. https://doi.org/10.54207/bsmps1000-1994-XN84P1

Publication History

Manuscript Published on 01 March 1994

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