Observations on field parasitism of the subterranean termite Pseudacanthotermes sp. (Termitidae: Macrotermitinae) by Megaselia scaralis (Diptera: Phoridae) in Uganda

Abstract

We carried out continuous field sampling, laboratory culturing and dissecting over two maize growing seasons in 1997 and 1998 to establish the status of the phorid fly, Megaselia scaralis as a parasitoid of the subterranean termite Pseudacanthotermes and it's relative abundance in Iganga and Wakiso districts of Uganda. Evidence was obtained that under field conditions the phorid is a primary parasitoid and probably a significant mortality factor in populations of Pseudacanthotermes species.M. scalaris was more abundant at Namulonge (Wakiso) compared to Ikulwe (Iganga) and percentages of parasitised termites higher in surface foragers under mulch than in underground nesting termites. To follow-up on this preliminary work, we recommend studies on the biology and ecology of the insect focussed on assessing whether it's activity could be of practical use in an integrated management strategy for termites in maize-based cropping systems in Uganda.