African Fungus Termite vs Spoonwing Lacewing

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute African Fungus Termite Spoonwing Lacewing
Scientific Name Macrotermes natalensis Nemoptera bipennis
Order Blattodea Neuroptera
Family Termitidae Nemopteridae
Size Workers 5-7 mm, soldiers 12-15 mm 20-28 mm body
Habitat Grasslands Grasslands
Diet Fungus Feeders Nectar Feeders
Regions Southern and East Africa Europe
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.

Spoonwing Lacewing

A graceful insect with spatula-shaped hindwing extensions, giving it an ethereal appearance in flight. Common in Iberian Peninsula grasslands.

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Did You Know?

The spoon-shaped hindwings create an unusual fluttering flight pattern that makes the insect difficult for predators to track.