Exploding Termite vs Emerald-spotted Flatwing Damselfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Exploding Termite | Emerald-spotted Flatwing Damselfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Neocapritermes taracua | Phaon iridipennis |
| Order | Blattodea | Odonata |
| Family | Termitidae | Calopterygidae |
| Size | 4-6 mm | 40-50 mm body length |
| Habitat | Caves | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | French Guiana, northern South America | East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda) |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Exploding Termite
A soil-feeding termite from French Guiana known for workers that carry backpack-like pouches of toxic crystals. When attacked, older workers rupture these pouches to release a sticky, toxic substance. This is the first documented case of worker autothysis in termites.
Did You Know?
Older workers develop blue crystal backpacks on their abdomens that become more toxic with age, essentially turning elderly workers into walking chemical weapons.
Emerald-spotted Flatwing Damselfly
A stunning damselfly with metallic green and blue body and broad, iridescent wings with emerald spots. Males display by opening and closing their wings to attract females along streams.
Did You Know?
Males perform elaborate courtship displays, hovering in front of females while slowly fanning their iridescent wings to catch the sunlight.