Grooming capacity inhibition in Cornitermes cumulans (Kollar) (Isoptera: Termitidae) inoculated with entomopathogenic fungi and treated with imidacloprid

this study was carried out to attest inhibition in c. cumulans grooming behavior when treated with entomopathogenic fungi and sub-doses of imidacloprid insecticide. observations were made under the scanning electronic microscope. the termite workers showed an efficient grooming behavior which allowed the removal of all conidia from the cuticle of soldiers and other workers, in the first hours after fungal application. the insecticide imidacloprid, when used in sublethal concentrations, inhibited grooming behavior and allowed conidia to germinate and penetrate the insect cuticle, causing infection