Indian Fungus-growing Termite vs European Subterranean Termite

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Indian Fungus-growing Termite European Subterranean Termite
Scientific Name Odontotermes obesus Reticulitermes lucifugus
Order Blattodea Blattodea
Family Termitidae Rhinotermitidae
Size Workers 4-6 mm, soldiers 7-10 mm Workers 3-5 mm, soldiers 4-6 mm
Habitat Farmland Caves
Diet Fungus Feeders Wood Feeders
Regions India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka Southern Europe (Mediterranean region)
Conservation Not Evaluated Not Evaluated

Indian Fungus-growing Termite

A major fungus-cultivating termite pest in the Indian subcontinent. It causes significant damage to crops, trees, and wooden structures.

💡

Did You Know?

It is considered one of the most economically destructive termite species in South Asia.

European Subterranean Termite

The most widespread subterranean termite in southern Europe. It damages wooden structures and historical buildings across the Mediterranean.

💡

Did You Know?

Its species name lucifugus means light-fleeing, referring to its strictly underground habit.