Desert Amitermes vs South American Tree Termite
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Desert Amitermes | South American Tree Termite |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Amitermes wheeleri | Nasutitermes similis |
| Order | Blattodea | Blattodea |
| Family | Termitidae | Termitidae |
| Size | 3-5 mm | 4-6 mm |
| Habitat | Deserts & Drylands | Forests |
| Diet | Detritivores | Gall Makers |
| Regions | Southwestern United States, Mexico | Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Desert Amitermes
A desert-adapted termite found in the arid regions of the southwestern United States and Mexico. Colonies build subterranean nests and forage on dead plant material. Workers seal foraging holes with soil during the heat of the day.
Did You Know?
This species is one of the few termites adapted to extreme desert conditions, foraging on the surface at night when temperatures drop and humidity rises.
South American Tree Termite
A common Neotropical nasute termite building carton nests on trees throughout South American forests. Colonies are moderately large with well-organized soldier defense. Workers forage along covered galleries on tree bark.
Did You Know?
Multiple carton nests of this species in a single tree can be interconnected by covered highways running along branches, forming a super-colony network.