Analysis of CO2 as bioindicator of termite degradation in wood structures

Abstract

[EN] The research performed exhaustive experiments to help better understand how subterranean termite colonies function in their biodegradation activity in wooden structural elements. Specifically, the research had as main objectives to analyse the usefulness of CO2 as a bioindicator of the presence of termites and their wood biodegradation activity. The obtained results have demonstrated that CO2 emissions of termite colonies vary depending on their wood degradation activity. So, the amount of CO2 emitted is closely linked to the population size and activity levels. The obtained relationship between the CO2 concentration and time for different population sizes can predict termite biodegradation severity and help establish predictive models for pest monitoring in wood structures.