Iberian Subterranean Termite vs Madagascan Marble Cockroach

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Iberian Subterranean Termite Madagascan Marble Cockroach
Scientific Name Reticulitermes grassei Nauphoeta madagascariensis
Order Blattodea Blattodea
Family Rhinotermitidae Blaberidae
Size 4-5 mm 25-30 mm
Habitat Caves Underground
Diet Gall Makers Fruit Feeders
Regions Spain, Portugal, southwestern France Madagascar
Conservation Least Concern Not Evaluated

Iberian Subterranean Termite

A subterranean termite found in the Iberian Peninsula and southwestern France. Colonies build underground galleries in soil and infest wooden structures. The species is of growing economic concern in southern Europe.

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Did You Know?

This species has been found infesting ancient Roman ruins and medieval castles across Iberia, slowly destroying irreplaceable archaeological timbers.

Madagascan Marble Cockroach

A medium-sized cockroach with a marbled brown pattern on its wings. It is endemic to the island of Madagascar.

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Did You Know?

Unlike its more famous hissing relatives, this species relies on camouflage rather than sound for defense.