Aphid vs Subterranean Termite

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Aphid Subterranean Termite
Scientific Name Myzus persicae Reticulitermes flavipes
Order Hemiptera Blattodea
Family Aphididae Rhinotermitidae
Size 1-3 mm 4-8 mm
Habitat Underground Underground
Diet Sap Feeders Wood Feeders
Regions Worldwide North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Aphid

Tiny sap-sucking insects with extraordinary reproduction. Can reproduce without mating (parthenogenesis) and give birth to live young that are already pregnant, telescoping generations.

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Did You Know?

Aphids can telescope generations — a female can contain a developing daughter, who already has a developing granddaughter inside her, all without mating.

Subterranean Termite

The most economically destructive termite species in North America, living in underground colonies that can number in the millions. Workers forage through soil to reach wood.

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Did You Know?

Eastern subterranean termites cause an estimated five billion dollars in property damage annually in the United States alone.