Iberian Subterranean Termite vs Rose-stem Gall Wasp

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Iberian Subterranean Termite Rose-stem Gall Wasp
Scientific Name Reticulitermes grassei Diplolepis spinosa
Order Blattodea Hymenoptera
Family Rhinotermitidae Cynipidae
Size 4-5 mm 2–3.5 mm
Habitat Caves Meadows
Diet Gall Makers Gall Makers
Regions Spain, Portugal, southwestern France North America
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.

Rose-stem Gall Wasp

A gall wasp that creates spiny galls on the stems of wild roses in North America. Each gall contains a single larval cell surrounded by hard woody tissue.

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Did You Know?

Its galls often persist on rose stems for years after the wasp has emerged, serving as shelter for other insects.