African Dampwood Termite vs Australian Stink Ant
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | African Dampwood Termite | Australian Stink Ant |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Neotermes aburiensis | Iridomyrmex bicknelli |
| Order | Blattodea | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Kalotermitidae | Formicidae |
| Size | 5-10 mm | 3-5 mm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Woodlands |
| Diet | Wood Feeders | Sap Feeders |
| Regions | West Africa (Ghana, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, Cameroon) | Australia, Oceania |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
African Dampwood Termite
A primitive termite species that nests inside damp, rotting wood rather than building external mounds. Colonies are relatively small compared to mound-building species. Soldiers have large phragmotic heads used to block tunnel entrances.
Did You Know?
Soldiers use their flattened heads like a cork to plug tunnel openings, providing an impenetrable barrier against ant raids.
Australian Stink Ant
A small, fast-moving ant that releases a strong, unpleasant odour when crushed, giving it its common name. It forms large colonies and is one of the most common ants in Australian suburban environments.
Did You Know?
Iridomyrmex ants dominate Australian ant communities and are among the most ecologically successful ants in the Southern Hemisphere.