Dark Mound Termite vs Powderpost Drywood Termite

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Dark Mound Termite Powderpost Drywood Termite
Scientific Name Macrotermes carbonarius Cryptotermes domesticus
Order Blattodea Blattodea
Family Termitidae Kalotermitidae
Size 5–12 mm Workers 3-5 mm, soldiers 4-5 mm
Habitat Woodlands Woodlands
Diet Fungus Feeders Wood Feeders
Regions Southeast Asia Tropical Asia, Pacific Islands
Conservation Not Evaluated Not Evaluated

Dark Mound Termite

A large fungus-growing termite found across Southeast Asia that builds conspicuous dark mounds. Workers process dead wood through underground fungal gardens.

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Did You Know?

The Termitomyces mushrooms that fruit from its mounds are prized as a delicacy across Southeast Asia.

Powderpost Drywood Termite

A destructive drywood termite that reduces wood to a fine powder. It is a major pest of wooden structures across tropical Asia.

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Did You Know?

Infested timber can appear intact on the surface while being completely hollow and powder-filled inside.