FIRST RECORD OF THE SUBTERRANEAN TERMITE RETICULITERMES AEGEUS IN ITALY: AN UNEXPECTED FINDING IN A PUBLIC PARK IN VENICE

Subterranean termites of the genus Reticulitermes were recently found in a garden in the historical centre of Venice (Veneto, northern Italy). Mitochondrial DNA analysis (COII gene) revealed that they belong to the species R. aegeus, a recently described taxon native to northeastern Mediterranean regions, including northeastern Greece, Crete and Cyprus. This is the first record of R. aegeus in Italy. Given the distance from the natural distribution range, the presence of R. aegeus in Venice is most probably the result of human-mediated introduction. Termites in the genus Reticulitermes can cause important damage to buildings and wooden structures, and some introduction events can result in heavy infestations. Although termite activity confined to a garden may not be a cause for concern, surrounding areas should be surveyed for signs of infestation in order to prevent damage to buildings and protect cultural heritage sites. Key Words: Reticulitermes aegeus, subterranean termite, Blattodea, Rhinotermitidae, alien species, Venice