European Subterranean Termite vs Common Bat Fly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute European Subterranean Termite Common Bat Fly
Scientific Name Reticulitermes lucifugus Basilia nana
Order Blattodea Diptera
Family Rhinotermitidae Nycteribiidae
Size Workers 3-5 mm, soldiers 4-6 mm 2-3 mm
Habitat Caves Caves
Diet Wood Feeders Blood Feeders
Regions Southern Europe (Mediterranean region) Europe
Conservation Not Evaluated Least Concern

European Subterranean Termite

The most widespread subterranean termite in southern Europe. It damages wooden structures and historical buildings across the Mediterranean.

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Did You Know?

Its species name lucifugus means light-fleeing, referring to its strictly underground habit.

Common Bat Fly

A tiny, completely wingless spider-like fly that parasitizes bats. Its body is so highly modified for ectoparasitism that it bears almost no resemblance to a typical fly.

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Did You Know?

It has evolved to be so specialized that its head folds back over the thorax, and it walks like a spider through bat fur.