European Subterranean Termite vs European Spruce Longhorn Beetle

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute European Subterranean Termite European Spruce Longhorn Beetle
Scientific Name Reticulitermes lucifugus Tetropium castaneum
Order Blattodea Coleoptera
Family Rhinotermitidae Cerambycidae
Size Workers 3-5 mm, soldiers 4-6 mm 8–18 mm
Habitat Caves Woodlands
Diet Wood Feeders Wood Feeders
Regions Southern Europe (Mediterranean region) Europe, Northern Asia
Conservation Not Evaluated Not Evaluated

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.

European Spruce Longhorn Beetle

A longhorn beetle native to Europe that bores into spruce trunks. It typically colonizes weakened or recently felled spruce trees.

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Did You Know?

It became a regulated quarantine pest after being found attacking healthy spruce in Nova Scotia, Canada.