Termites of the Savanna ecosystem project study area, Nylsvley

Abstract

This report describes the termite fauna of the Savanna Ecosystem Project study area at the Nylsvley Nature Reserve, with an illustrated key for identification of species. Twenty-one species of fifteen genera and two families are recorded, and notes on their biology are given. Most of the species occur in the flatter areas of Burkea savanna; three are restricted to open land near the turfvlei" Tfie broad-leaved woodland of Maroelakop lacks two species but has two others restricted. Acacia patches (including sites of former human settlement) have a much reduced variety of species. The faunal composition is broadly similar to that of west African savannas, but a little impoverished. Main deficiencies are in a variety of Macrotermitinae and Trinervitermes; Termitinae are broadly comparable.