BIOLOGY AND ECOLOGY OF TERMITES IN KHOREZM AND KARAKALPAKSTAN, UZBEKISTAN

Abstract

Termites (order Blattodea: infraorder Isoptera) are eusocial, cellulose-feeding insects that have become significant pests in the arid regions of Uzbekistan. In particular, the Khorezm oasis and Karakalpakstan (west Uzbekistan) have seen rapidly expanding termite infestations. The principal species belong to the genus Anacanthotermes (Hodotermitidae), notably A. turkestanicus (“Turkestan termite”) and A. ahngerianus (“Greater Caspian termite”)[1][2]. These termites build large underground colonies and feed on wood and dry plant matter, making them a major threat to buildings, crops, and natural vegetation[3][4]. The arid continental climate of the Aral Sea basin – hot, dry summers, cold winters, and very low rainfall – along with rising groundwater from Aral Sea shrinkage, has inadvertently created ideal conditions for termite spread[5][6]. Recent surveys document termite presence across all districts of Khorezm and wide areas of Karakalpakstan, with thousands of homes and dozens of cultural heritage sites already damaged[7][8]. This report reviews termite biology, distribution, and impact in these regions, and discusses current control strategies.