Asian Subterranean Termite vs African Jewel Beetle

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Asian Subterranean Termite African Jewel Beetle
Scientific Name Coptotermes gestroi Sternocera orissa
Order Blattodea Coleoptera
Family Rhinotermitidae Buprestidae
Size 3-6 mm 30-50 mm
Habitat Caves Grasslands
Diet Wood Feeders Wood Feeders
Regions Southeast Asia, Caribbean, South America, Florida East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia)
Conservation Not Evaluated Least Concern

Asian Subterranean Termite

A highly invasive subterranean termite that has spread throughout tropical regions worldwide. They are especially destructive in urban environments and boat timbers.

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Did You Know?

They have been transported globally through infested shipping materials and now threaten wooden structures on every tropical continent.

African Jewel Beetle

A large metallic green and gold jewel beetle with textured elytra. Adults are found on acacia and other savanna trees.

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Did You Know?

Their wing cases have been used for centuries in traditional African and Asian jewelry and textile decoration.