Increased fruit production in Cipocereus minensis (Cactaceae) associated with termite nests (Isoptera: Termitidae) in Campo Rupestre (Brazilian altitude grassland)

TL;DR

This study finds that cacti growing near termite nests in a Brazilian grassland produce more fruit, likely due to improved microclimate and nutrients.

Contribution

First investigation of cactus-termites association and its impact on cactus reproduction and phenology in the Campo Rupestre.

Findings

Cacti near termite nests had higher flower bud and fruit production.

Termite nests may act as 'fertility islands' by regulating microclimate and enhancing nutrient availability.

Cacti on termite nests showed stronger climate response at the start of their phenological cycle.

Abstract

Cipocereus minensis (Cactaceae) is a columnar, shrubby cactus endemic to the Campo Rupestre (Brazilian altitude grassland), often found associated with termite nests (Blattaria: Isoptera). This study investigates, for the first time, the association between cacti and termites, exploring the potential influence of termite nests on cactus production and phenology. Specifically, we assessed whether cacti in termite nests exhibited (i) different phenological pattern; (ii) greater reproductive structures produced; (iii) higher buds to immature fruits conversion rate; (iv) different responses in productivity related to temperature and rainfall; and (v) the termite species inhabiting the nests. Weekly quantitative phenological monitoring was conducted on 62 cacti (31 growing on termite nests, and 31 on rocky substrate) over 94 weeks (2018–2020). Temperature and rainfall were measured, and termites identified. Circular statistics were used to assess phenology, while GLMMs tested the effects of temperature, rainfall and substrate on the production of reproductive structures. For both substrates, C. minensis flowered and fruited throughout the year, with two to three more pronounced peaks annually, mainly in the dry season. GLMMs indicated that substrate influenced how cacti responded to climate fluctuations, particularly temperature. Seven termite species were identified in 24 inhabited nests, with up to three species per nest, while seven nests were abandoned. Cacti associated with termite nests exhibited greater flower buds and fruit production, and were more affected by climate at the onset of the phenological cycle (timing). Termite nests may provide microclimatic regulation (temperature e moisture) and can promote nutrient cycling, acting as “fertility islands” in the nutrient-poor Campo Rupestre soil, suggesting that the cacti grown in this substrate have access to more resources, such as nutrients and moisture.

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