Reticulitermes flavipes is the most invasive species in its genus and is responsible for causing significant damage to human structures in areas where it has been introduced. Although it has already become established in Chile and Uruguay, it had not previously been reported in Argentina. In this study, we report the first detection of this species in Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina. The colony was already producing alates, and species identification was confirmed through both morphology and mitochondrial gene 16S rRNA analysis. Our results, while not conclusive, suggest that this introduction was independent from the one that occurred in Chile and Uruguay, and potentially originated from the United States. The detection of R. flavipes in Argentina is significant because it highlights the potential for this species to establish itself in new regions and underscores the need for future research on and control of R. flavipes in this country.
How to translate text using browser tools
8 May 2023
First record of the major termite pest species, Reticulitermes flavipes (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae), in Argentina
Tiago F. Carrijo,
Jaqueline Battilana,
Jorge Morales
ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE
It is not available for individual sale.
This article is only available to subscribers.
It is not available for individual sale.
It is not available for individual sale.
Journal of Economic Entomology
Vol. 116 • No. 3
June 2023
Vol. 116 • No. 3
June 2023
Argentina
eastern subterranean termite
invasive species
new record
pest control