Data from: Hybrids of two destructive subterranean termites established in the field, revealing a potential for gene flow between species

Hybridization between invasive pest species may lead to significant
genetic and economic impacts that require close monitoring. The two most
invasive and destructive termite species worldwide, Coptotermes formosanus
Shiraki and Coptotermes gestroi (Wasmann), have the potential for
hybridization in the field. A three-year field survey conducted during the
dispersal flight season of Coptotermes in Taiwan identified alates with
atypical morphology, which were confirmed as hybrids of the two
Coptotermes species using microsatellite and mitochondrial analyses. Out
of 27,601 alates collected over three years, 4.4% were confirmed as hybrid
alates, and some advanced hybrids (>F1 generations) were
identified. The hybrid alates had a dispersal flight season that
overlapped with the two parental species 13 out of 15 times. Most of the
hybrid alates were females, implying that mating opportunities beyond F1
may primarily be possible through female hybrids. However, the incipient
colony growth results from all potential mating combinations suggest that
only backcross colonies with hybrid males could sometimes lead to brood
development. The observed asymmetrical viability and fertility of hybrid
alates may critically reduce the probability of advanced-hybrid colonies
being established in the field.