Caste determination and differentiation with special reference to the genus reticulitermes (Isoptera)

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Abstract
The results of recent investigations concerning caste determination among termites have been briefly reviewed with emphasis upon the work of Thompson ('17). From examination of new data upon the development of Reticulitermes arenincola Goellner, R. flavipes (Kollar), and R. tibialis Banks, and of Thompson's original R. flavipes material, I am unable to substantiate her claim that the sterile and reproductive castes are separable into two distinct groups at the time of hatching. I could distinguish them first in stadium three and suggest that the second stadium may be a critical period in differentiation. From evidence to date, it must be granted that both intrinsic and extrinsic factors may play a role in the production of castes. The delay in appearance of demonstrable caste differences until the third stadium in the genus Reticulitermes at least admits of an opportunity for extrinsic factors to be effective. Growth and metamorphosis of various structures which ultimately lead to the three differentiated castes have been followed through successive stadia. Gynandromorphs and intercastes among social insects give indication of the physiological and genetic factors influencing both morphological and behavior differences among castes.

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