Antennal excision reveals disparate olfactory expression patterns within castes in Reticulitermes aculabialis (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae)

• Published in: Arthropod structure & development Vol. 78; p. 101326
• Main Authors: Yang, Wenxu, Lu, Yan, He, Xiaohui, Wang, Lu, Nie, Jinjuan, Saba, Noor us, Su, Xiaohong, Xing, Lianxi, Ye, Chenxu
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England Elsevier Ltd 01.01.2024
• Subjects: Antennal sensilla; Chemosensory proteins; Gene homology; Odorant-binding proteins; Reticulitermes aculabialis; Tissue localization; Antennal sensilla; Tissue localization; Reticulitermes aculabialis; Odorant-binding proteins; Chemosensory proteins; Gene homology
• ISSN: 1467-8039; 1873-5495
• DOI: 10.1016/j.asd.2023.101326

In lower termites, which exhibit a high degree of compound eye degradation or absence, antennae play a pivotal role in information acquisition. This comprehensive study investigates the olfactory system of Reticulitermes aculabialis, spanning five developmental stages and three castes. Initially, we characterize the structures and distribution of antennal sensilla across different developmental stages. Results demonstrate variations in sensilla types and distributions among stages, aligning with caste-specific division of labor and suggesting their involvement in environmental sensitivity detection, signal differentiation, and nestmate recognition. Subsequently, we explore the impact of antennal excision on olfactory gene expression in various caste categories through transcriptomics, homology analysis, and expression profiling. Findings reveal that olfactory genes expression is influenced by antennal excision, with outcomes varying according to caste and the extent of excision. Finally, utilizing fluorescence in situ hybridization, we precisely localize the expression sites of olfactory genes within the antennae. This research reveals the intricate and adaptable nature of the termite olfactory system, highlighting its significance in adapting to diverse ecological roles and demands of social living. •Reticulitermes aculabialis displays stage-specific antennal sensilla variations.•Antennal excision revealed caste-specific patterns of RacuOBPs and RacuCSPs.•FISH locates three olfactory genes in antennal sensilla chaetica and trichodea.