Fungus-growing termites originated in African rain forest

What is it about?

We show that the fungus growing termites, some of the ecologically most important termites, have their origin in African rain forest and have colonised other areas and habitats because of their ability to keep the symbiotic fungus grown in the nest at temperature and humidity levels like those in the ancestral rain forests.

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Why is it important?

The idea that some termites can take the rain forest environment with them is interesting and may explain fungus-growing termites extraordinary ecological success.

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