Elm Seed Bug vs Subterranean Termite
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Elm Seed Bug | Subterranean Termite |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Arocatus melanocephalus | Reticulitermes flavipes |
| Order | Hemiptera | Blattodea |
| Family | Lygaeidae | Rhinotermitidae |
| Size | 6-7 mm | 4-8 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Underground |
| Diet | Seed Feeders | Wood Feeders |
| Regions | Europe (native), Northwestern North America (invasive) | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Elm Seed Bug
A small seed bug native to southern Europe that has become an invasive nuisance pest in the northwestern United States. It aggregates in enormous numbers on and inside buildings in summer and fall.
Did You Know?
Thousands can invade a single home seeking shelter, producing a foul odor when disturbed or crushed.
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.
Did You Know?
Eastern subterranean termites cause an estimated five billion dollars in property damage annually in the United States alone.