Thus the social environment of these insects provide benefits with respect to disease susceptibility. Termites increase significantly the rate of allogrooming in response to the presence to an entomopathogenic fungus. By modifying their behavior, termites appear to reduce the risk of infection. We have also shown that fecal materials and many glandular secretions of termites, thought to have evolved specifically for the purpose of colony defense or foraging, have fungistic properties. Thus, it appears that such secretions have acquired a secondary function and now provide protection against potential pathogens in addition to their original function.
Termites also develop an immune response against funge and bacteria.
Immunized individuals have a significantly higher survival following a challenge with lethal dosages of the pathogen than non-immunized termites. Currently, we are trying to detect and identify the immune proteins in the hemolymph of immunized individuals by SDS-PAGE electrophoresis, determine if the mounted immunity has specificity, and if termite nestmates can be socially immunized. Pathogens represent an important selective force. By studying the mechanisms of disease resistance in termites, we can provide some insight into the ecological and evolutionary constraints that these insects faced as they evolved socially. Rosengaus, R.B., A. Maxmen, L. Coates, and J.F.A. Traniello.