African Fungus Termite vs Madeira Cockroach

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute African Fungus Termite Madeira Cockroach
Scientific Name Macrotermes natalensis Leucophaea maderae
Order Blattodea Blattodea
Family Termitidae Blaberidae
Size Workers 5-7 mm, soldiers 12-15 mm 40-50mm
Habitat Grasslands Underground
Diet Fungus Feeders Omnivores
Regions Southern and East Africa Africa, South America, North America
Conservation Not Evaluated Least Concern

African Fungus Termite

A large fungus-cultivating termite that builds complex mounds with sophisticated ventilation systems. Its mounds are among the largest biological structures on Earth.

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Did You Know?

Its mound ventilation system maintains internal temperatures within 1 degree Celsius despite external fluctuations of 40 degrees.

Madeira Cockroach

A large pale brown cockroach that emits a foul-smelling liquid when disturbed. It cannot climb smooth surfaces. Originally from West Africa, it has become established in tropical regions worldwide.

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Did You Know?

It sprays a noxious defensive liquid from abdominal glands that smells terrible and stains skin.