Dark Southern Drywood Termite vs Subterranean Termite

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Dark Southern Drywood Termite Subterranean Termite
Scientific Name Cryptotermes cavifrons Reticulitermes flavipes
Order Blattodea Blattodea
Family Kalotermitidae Rhinotermitidae
Size 4-7 mm 4-8 mm
Habitat Woodlands Underground
Diet Wood Feeders Wood Feeders
Regions Southeastern United States, Caribbean North America
Conservation Not Evaluated Least Concern

Dark Southern Drywood Termite

A native drywood termite of the southeastern United States and Caribbean. They infest hardwoods and are commonly found in dead tree branches and stumps.

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Did You Know?

Their soldiers use their uniquely roughened heads to block gallery entrances with a sandpaper-like grip.

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.