Malagasy Mound-building Termite vs Freeze-Tolerant Cockroach
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Malagasy Mound-building Termite | Freeze-Tolerant Cockroach |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Microcerotermes subtilis | Periplaneta japonica |
| Order | Blattodea | Blattodea |
| Family | Termitidae | Blattidae |
| Size | 3-5 mm | 25-35 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Woodlands |
| Diet | Wood Feeders | Omnivores |
| Regions | Madagascar | Asia, North America (invasive) |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Malagasy Mound-building Termite
A small termite species that constructs conspicuous carton mounds on tree trunks or the ground. Workers are pale and soft-bodied with darkened head capsules.
Did You Know?
Its dark carton mounds are made from a mixture of soil, chewed wood, and fecal material cemented together, and they can persist for years even after the colony dies.
Freeze-Tolerant Cockroach
An invasive cockroach from Asia first found in New York City in 2012. Unlike other cockroach species, it can survive outdoors through freezing winters.
Did You Know?
This is the only cockroach species in New York that can survive the citys harsh winters outdoors — it was first discovered on the High Line elevated park in Manhattan.