Giant Jawed Longhorn vs Turneri Carton Termite
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Giant Jawed Longhorn | Turneri Carton Termite |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Macrodontia dejeanii | Microcerotermes turneri |
| Order | Coleoptera | Blattodea |
| Family | Cerambycidae | Termitidae |
| Size | 50-85 mm | 3-5 mm |
| Habitat | Forests | Forests |
| Diet | Wood Feeders | Wood Feeders |
| Regions | Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina | Northern and eastern Australia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Giant Jawed Longhorn
A large prionine with impressive curved mandibles from the tropical forests of South America. While smaller than the famous M. cervicornis, it is still a formidable insect. Males use their enlarged mandibles in combat over females.
Did You Know?
The mandibles of males can account for nearly a third of total body length and are used like antlers in combat.
Turneri Carton Termite
An Australian arboreal termite that builds small, round carton nests on the trunks of eucalyptus trees. Colonies are small to medium-sized. Workers consume weathered and partially decayed wood.
Did You Know?
The nests are surprisingly hard and durable, persisting on trees for years after the colony has vacated, and are sometimes used by other insects as shelter.