Formosan Subterranean Termite vs Australian Cockroach

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Formosan Subterranean Termite Australian Cockroach
Scientific Name Coptotermes formosanus Periplaneta australasiae
Order Blattodea Blattodea
Family Rhinotermitidae Blattidae
Size 5-8 mm 23-35 mm
Habitat Underground Underground
Diet Wood Feeders Detritivores
Regions Asia, North America Oceania, Asia, Africa, South America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Formosan Subterranean Termite

One of the most aggressive and destructive termite species in the world, forming massive colonies of several million individuals. It originated in southern China.

💡

Did You Know?

A single Formosan termite colony can contain over 10 million individuals and consume up to 400 grams of wood per day, enough to severely damage a home in six months.

Australian Cockroach

A large tropical cockroach similar to the American cockroach but with distinctive yellow markings on the pronotum and wing edges. It is a strong flier.

💡

Did You Know?

Despite its name, the Australian cockroach is believed to have originated in tropical Africa and spread worldwide through maritime trade.