Exploding Termite vs Northern Black Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Exploding Termite | Northern Black Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Neocapritermes taracua | Simulium venustum |
| Order | Blattodea | Diptera |
| Family | Termitidae | Simuliidae |
| Size | 4-6 mm | 2-4 mm |
| Habitat | Caves | Forests |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | French Guiana, northern South America | North America |
| 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.
Northern Black Fly
A common biting black fly of northern forests and boreal streams. Larvae form dense colonies on submerged rocks in cold flowing water.
Did You Know?
Females can detect carbon dioxide exhaled by hosts from over 20 meters away.