Death Watch Barklouse vs African Stink Ant
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Death Watch Barklouse | African Stink Ant |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Trogium pulsatorium | Paltothyreus tarsatus |
| Order | Psocoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Trogiidae | Formicidae |
| Size | 1.5-2 mm | 15-20 mm |
| Habitat | Indoors | Indoors |
| Diet | Fungus Feeders | Seed Feeders |
| Regions | Europe, North America | Sub-Saharan Africa |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Death Watch Barklouse
A common indoor booklouse known for producing a quiet tapping sound by striking its abdomen against surfaces. It is found in old buildings and museums.
Did You Know?
Its tapping sound was historically mistaken for a death omen, hence its common name.
African Stink Ant
A very large black ponerine ant that releases a foul-smelling secretion when disturbed. It is one of Africa's most conspicuous ground-dwelling ants with a powerful sting.
Did You Know?
Its defensive odor is so pungent it can be smelled by humans from over a meter away.