Malagasy Drywood Termite vs Japanese Mantidfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Malagasy Drywood Termite Japanese Mantidfly
Scientific Name Cryptotermes kirbyi Mantispa japonica
Order Blattodea Neuroptera
Family Kalotermitidae Mantispidae
Size 4-6 mm 18-25 mm wingspan
Habitat Woodlands Woodlands
Diet Wood Feeders Omnivores
Regions Madagascar Japan, Korea, Eastern China
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

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.

Japanese Mantidfly

An East Asian mantidfly found in woodlands across Japan and Korea. Recognized by its amber-tinted wings and stout raptorial legs.

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Did You Know?

In Japan it is called 'kamakiri-modoki' meaning 'mantis look-alike' due to its praying mantis resemblance.