Malagasy Drywood Termite vs Magnetic Termite
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Malagasy Drywood Termite | Magnetic Termite |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Cryptotermes kirbyi | Amitermes meridionalis |
| Order | Blattodea | Blattodea |
| Family | Kalotermitidae | Termitidae |
| Size | 4-6 mm | 4-6 mm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Forests |
| Diet | Wood Feeders | Omnivores |
| Regions | Madagascar | Oceania |
| 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.
Did You Know?
Soldiers use their heavily armored, plug-shaped heads as living barricades to block gallery entrances against invading ants.
Magnetic Termite
Builds tall wedge-shaped mounds precisely oriented on a north-south axis to regulate internal temperature. The flat sides face east-west to warm in the morning and cool in the afternoon.
Did You Know?
Every magnetic termite mound in northern Australia points the same direction — perfectly north-south like compass needles, to regulate internal temperature throughout the day.