Microtermes Subterranean Termite vs Long-nosed Termite

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Microtermes Subterranean Termite Long-nosed Termite
Scientific Name Microtermes obesi Nasutitermes longinasus
Order Blattodea Blattodea
Family Termitidae Termitidae
Size 2-4 mm 4-6 mm
Habitat Caves Forests
Diet Root Feeders Detritivores
Regions India, Pakistan, Middle East Central America, northern South America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Microtermes Subterranean Termite

A small fungus-growing termite widespread across South Asia and the Middle East. Unlike larger Macrotermes, colonies build entirely subterranean nests without visible mound structures. Workers are tiny and feed on root material and buried wood.

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Did You Know?

Despite being among the smallest termites, colonies of this species are major agricultural pests, attacking wheat and sugarcane roots from below ground.

Long-nosed Termite

A nasute termite from Central and South American rainforests that builds carton nests on trees. Soldiers have an exceptionally elongated nasute snout for projecting defensive chemicals. Workers collect decomposing plant material from the forest floor.

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Did You Know?

The elongated nozzle of the soldier allows it to spray defensive secretions with remarkable accuracy over distances of several centimeters.