Abstract

BATISTA, Felipe Gomes et al. Natural resistance of six wood species to Nasutitermes corniger Motsch in field condition. Madera bosques [online]. 2020, vol.26, n.2, e2622017.  Epub July 03, 2020. ISSN 2448-7597.  https://doi.org/10.21829/myb.2020.2622017.

The natural durability of the wood is an excellent characteristic for the use of wood parts under proper and efficient conditions of use. This work aimed to evaluate the natural resistance of six wood forest species to xylophagous termites in field conditions. The woods studied were Carapa guianensis Aubl, Myracrodruon urundeuva Allemão, Cedrella sp., Hymenaea courbaril L., Nectandra sp. and Manilkara elata (Allemão ex Miq.) Monach. Test samples with dimensions of 7.2 cm × 1.3 cm × 0.9 cm (longitudinal × radial × tangential) were made from each wood species. They remained exposed for 40 days under the action of Nasutitermes corniger Motschulsky termites in a food preference test, Carapa guianensis wood presented greater mass loss and susceptibility to attack by N. corniger. On the other hand, the species Cedrella sp. and Nectandra sp. showed intermediate values among the others to the analyzed aspects. The woods of Carapa guianensis, Hymenaea courbaril and Manilkara elata stood out in the grade values attributed to the wear, as well as the low susceptibility. Therefore, these latter woods are best suited for use in order to promote their efficient use, minimize damage caused by exposure to xylophagous termites and maximize the useful life and safety of the timber product.

Keywords : natural durability; tropical species; subterraneous térmites.

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