Dark Southern Subterranean Termite vs Powderpost Drywood Termite

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Dark Southern Subterranean Termite Powderpost Drywood Termite
Scientific Name Reticulitermes virginicus Cryptotermes domesticus
Order Blattodea Blattodea
Family Rhinotermitidae Kalotermitidae
Size Workers 3-4 mm, soldiers 4-5 mm Workers 3-5 mm, soldiers 4-5 mm
Habitat Caves Woodlands
Diet Wood Feeders Wood Feeders
Regions Southeastern United States Tropical Asia, Pacific Islands
Conservation Not Evaluated Not Evaluated

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.

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Did You Know?

It often coexists with the eastern subterranean termite, with both species found in the same logs.

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.