Iberian Subterranean Termite vs Rose Midge

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Iberian Subterranean Termite Rose Midge
Scientific Name Reticulitermes grassei Dasineura rhodophaga
Order Blattodea Diptera
Family Rhinotermitidae Cecidomyiidae
Size 4-5 mm 1-2 mm
Habitat Caves Underground
Diet Gall Makers Gall Makers
Regions Spain, Portugal, southwestern France North America, Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

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.

Rose Midge

A tiny gall midge whose larvae develop inside rose buds, causing them to blacken and fail to open. Adults are delicate yellowish flies barely visible to the naked eye.

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Did You Know?

A single rose bud can contain dozens of tiny orange larvae that destroy the flower before it ever opens.