Transfer entropy analysis reveals interaction dynamics between termite castes

 Termites exhibit complex social structures characterized by distinct castes, each playing specialized roles within 
the colony. This study explores the interaction dynamics between the worker and soldier castes of Reticulitermes 
lucifugus using a transfer entropy framework. Inter-individual interactions were investigated across three caste 
pairings (worker with worker, soldier with soldier, and worker with soldier), enabling direct comparison of 
interaction dynamics. A computer vision pipeline tracked movements, and two variables, occupied area and 
speed, were analyzed as proxies for interaction. Transfer entropy quantified the amount, direction, and timing of 
information transfer. Sampling resolution and time lags were systematically varied to map temporal scales of 
influence. The working assumption was that higher transfer entropy values reflect a higher level of interaction 
between individuals. First, in the temporal-resolution analysis of speed, worker–worker pairs showed the highest 
total transfer entropy, and mixed pairs exhibited directional asymmetry, with higher information flow from 
soldiers to workers than vice versa. Second, in the time-lag analysis, total transfer entropy for occupied area was 
higher in worker–worker pairs (1.04 bits), compared with soldier–soldier (0.67 bits) and mixed (0.68 bits) pairs. 
The same pattern held for speed, with worker–worker pairs reaching 0.25 bits, whereas soldier–soldier and 
mixed pairs reached 0.20 bits. Overall, results indicate caste-specific interaction dynamics, with worker-worker 
pairs exhibiting a higher level of interaction. These insights advance understanding of termite social organization 
and suggest applications in pest management, with broader implications for swarm intelligence and bio-inspired 
engineering.