Florida Drywood Termite vs Freeze-Tolerant Cockroach

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Florida Drywood Termite Freeze-Tolerant Cockroach
Scientific Name Calcaritermes nearcticus Periplaneta japonica
Order Blattodea Blattodea
Family Kalotermitidae Blattidae
Size Workers 4-5 mm, soldiers 4-6 mm 25-35 mm
Habitat Woodlands Woodlands
Diet Wood Feeders Omnivores
Regions Southeastern United States (Florida, coastal Southeast) Asia, North America (invasive)
Conservation Not Evaluated Least Concern

Florida Drywood Termite

A small drywood termite native to the southeastern United States. Soldiers have distinctive calcar-like projections on their tibiae.

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Did You Know?

Its tibial spurs (calcars) give the genus its name and are used in defense alongside its mandibles.

Freeze-Tolerant Cockroach

An invasive cockroach from Asia first found in New York City in 2012. Unlike other cockroach species, it can survive outdoors through freezing winters.

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Did You Know?

This is the only cockroach species in New York that can survive the citys harsh winters outdoors — it was first discovered on the High Line elevated park in Manhattan.