Malagasy Drywood Termite vs Indian Subterranean Termite

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Malagasy Drywood Termite Indian Subterranean Termite
Scientific Name Cryptotermes kirbyi Coptotermes heimi
Order Blattodea Blattodea
Family Kalotermitidae Rhinotermitidae
Size 4-6 mm Workers 3-5 mm, soldiers 5-6 mm
Habitat Woodlands Farmland
Diet Wood Feeders Wood Feeders
Regions Madagascar India, Pakistan, Middle East
Conservation Least Concern Not Evaluated

Malagasy Drywood Termite

A small drywood termite that forms compact colonies inside dead branches and timber. Soldiers have distinctive phragmotic heads used to block tunnel entrances.

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Did You Know?

Soldiers use their heavily armored, plug-shaped heads as living barricades to block gallery entrances against invading ants.

Indian Subterranean Termite

A destructive subterranean termite common across the Indian subcontinent. It attacks wooden structures, crops, and living trees.

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Did You Know?

It is responsible for more structural damage in India than any other single insect species.