The genus Cryptotermes in Australia (Isoptera : Kalotermitidae)

Abstract

An account is given of the external morphology, distribution and biology of endemic and exotic species of the genus Cryptotermes occurring in Australia. The endemic species discussed are C gearyi (Hill), C. primus (Hill) [with which C. arcanus (Hill) is synonymized], C. queenslandis (Hill), and C. secundus (Hill) (removed from synonymy with C. dudleyi Banks); in addition, eight new species are described: C. austrinus, C. cristatus, C. hilli, C. nitidus, C. papulosus, C. riverinae, C. simulatus, and C. tropicalis. The exotic species included are C. brevis (Walker) and C. dudleyi Banks. Two other species, C. cynocephalus Light and C. domesticus (Haviland), previously considered to be introduced exotic species, occur naturally in northern Australia and are treated as endemic. Keys are given to the imago and soldier castes of all the above species.