Chrome Cockroach vs African Harvester Termite
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Chrome Cockroach | African Harvester Termite |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Gyna caffrorum | Microhodotermes viator |
| Order | Blattodea | Blattodea |
| Family | Blaberidae | Hodotermitidae |
| Size | 20-28 mm | 6-10 mm |
| Habitat | Forests | Heathland |
| Diet | Fruit Feeders | Herbivores |
| Regions | South Africa, Mozambique | Western Cape, South Africa |
| Conservation | Not Evaluated | Least Concern |
Chrome Cockroach
A small cockroach with a uniquely translucent, chrome-like pronotum. Nymphs are dark and burrowing while adults are agile fliers.
Did You Know?
The see-through pronotum of the adult gives it a chrome or glass-like appearance unique among cockroaches.
African Harvester Termite
A harvester termite found in the fynbos and semi-arid regions of the Western Cape in South Africa. Workers have pigmented eyes and forage on the surface for grass and plant material. Colonies build subterranean nests with extensive tunnel systems.
Did You Know?
This species creates 'heuweltjies' (small mounds) in the fynbos landscape that are visible in satellite imagery and may persist for thousands of years.