Dark Southern Subterranean Termite vs American Cockroach
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Dark Southern Subterranean Termite | American Cockroach |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Reticulitermes virginicus | Periplaneta americana |
| Order | Blattodea | Blattodea |
| Family | Rhinotermitidae | Blattidae |
| Size | Workers 3-4 mm, soldiers 4-5 mm | 35-53 mm |
| Habitat | Caves | Gardens |
| Diet | Wood Feeders | Omnivores |
| Regions | Southeastern United States | Worldwide |
| Conservation | Not Evaluated | Least Concern |
Dark Southern Subterranean Termite
A common subterranean termite in the southeastern United States. It is smaller and less destructive than the eastern subterranean termite but still causes significant damage.
Did You Know?
It often coexists with the eastern subterranean termite, with both species found in the same logs.
American Cockroach
Despite its name, native to Africa. One of the largest common cockroaches. Can run at 5.4 km/h — proportionally, one of the fastest land insects. Can survive weeks without its head.
Did You Know?
A cockroach can live for a week without its head — it breathes through spiracles on its body and only dies because it cannot drink water.