Topological efficiency in three-dimensional gallery networks of termite nests

Transport networks are a key component of human and natural societies that enable efficient communication at a low cost. Here, we study the topological efficiency of the three-dimensional networks of galleries in termite nests and how spatial constraints affect the organisation of these networks. Cubitermes termite nests have far better than random transportation efficiency, but they do not reach theoretical optimal performance. We rather suggest a multiobjective process where a number of additional requirements, such as resilience to external attacks and the presence of spatial constraints, limit the ability of the system to achieve maximal transportation performance. © 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.