Freeze-Tolerant Cockroach vs Malaccensis Fungus Termite

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Freeze-Tolerant Cockroach Malaccensis Fungus Termite
Scientific Name Periplaneta japonica Macrotermes malaccensis
Order Blattodea Blattodea
Family Blattidae Termitidae
Size 25-35 mm 5-14 mm
Habitat Woodlands Forests
Diet Omnivores Fungus Feeders
Regions Asia, North America (invasive) Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra, Borneo
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

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.

Malaccensis Fungus Termite

A large mound-building fungus termite found in the rainforests of peninsular Malaysia and Borneo. Colonies construct prominent earthen mounds up to 2 meters tall on the forest floor. Workers are dimorphic with major and minor size classes.

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Did You Know?

The mounds serve as critical habitat for many other species, including snakes, geckos, and beetles that nest in the stable temperature and humidity of the termite mound.