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Induction of a reproductive-specific cuticular hydrocarbon profile by a juvenile hormone analog in the termite Zootermopsis nevadensis

Chemoecology volume 26, pages 195–203 (2016)Cite this article

Abstract

Establishment and maintenance of the reproductive division of labor within social insect colonies relies on clear communication between nestmates. Fertile members convey their status to prevent others from becoming reproductively active. Recent findings in some basal termites indicate that cuticular hydrocarbon profiles may indicate reproductive state, but there is little evidence to show a direct link between reproductive status and hydrocarbon production—a prerequisite for an “honest” fertility signal. Here, we report that the putative signaling mechanism is influenced by juvenile hormone (JH), a primary regulator of gonadal development and activity in insects. Topical application of a JH-analog (pyriproxyfen) to reproductively inactive alates of the basal dampwood termite Zootermopsis nevadensis induced both females and males to express significantly more of a reproductive-specific hydrocarbon (6,9,17-tritriacontatriene). However, the JH-analog did not significantly enhance gonadal development or activity in treated termites beyond what is usually observed in maturing alates released from the inhibitory stimuli of their natal nest. These results suggest that a rise in JH following disinhibition drives the expression of reproductive-specific hydrocarbons, but that an individual’s hydrocarbon profile is not directly linked to its gonadal state. Rather than directly driving the expression of reproductive-specific hydrocarbons, the gonads may act indirectly through their influence on circulating JH.

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Acknowledgments

We thank the administrators of the Pebble Beach Company for permission to collect termites. We would also like to thank Kevin Haight for assisting with colony collection and maintenance, and Steven Prager for assisting with colony maintenance and JHA treatments. All experiments were conducted in accordance with American statutes governing research. Mention of trade names or commercial products in this article is solely for the purpose of providing specific information and does not imply recommendation or endorsement by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. This project was supported by the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Competitive Grant No. 2007-35302-18172 from the United States Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture.

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  1. US Department of Agriculture, Arid-Land Agricultural Research Center, Maricopa, AZ, 85138, USA

    Colin S. Brent

  2. School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85287, USA

    Clint A. Penick, Beth Trobaugh, Dani Moore & Jürgen Liebig

  3. Department of Biology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695-7617, USA

    Clint A. Penick

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  1. Colin S. Brent
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  2. Clint A. Penick
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Correspondence to Colin S. Brent.

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Brent, C.S., Penick, C.A., Trobaugh, B. et al. Induction of a reproductive-specific cuticular hydrocarbon profile by a juvenile hormone analog in the termite Zootermopsis nevadensis . Chemoecology 26, 195–203 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00049-016-0219-8

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Keywords

  • Cuticular hydrocarbons
  • Fertility signaling
  • Gonads
  • Juvenile hormone
  • Termites