Miniature Water Scavenger Beetle vs Mound-building Termite
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Miniature Water Scavenger Beetle | Mound-building Termite |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Cercyon laminatus | Macrotermes gilvus |
| Order | Coleoptera | Blattodea |
| Family | Hydrophilidae | Termitidae |
| Size | 2-3 mm | 5-12 mm |
| Habitat | Gardens | Farmland |
| Diet | Fungus Feeders | Fungus Feeders |
| Regions | Europe, North America (introduced) | Southeast Asia, from India to the Philippines |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Miniature Water Scavenger Beetle
A tiny terrestrial hydrophilid often found in compost and decaying plant material. Despite belonging to a water beetle family, it is entirely land-dwelling.
Did You Know?
It has spread globally through the movement of compost and agricultural products.
Mound-building Termite
A fungus-growing termite widespread across Southeast Asia that builds subterranean to semi-subterranean nests with low mound structures. It is a significant pest of rubber, coconut, and oil palm plantations. Workers forage via covered galleries.
Did You Know?
In parts of Thailand and Laos, the winged reproductives of this species are fried and eaten as a popular seasonal snack during the early rainy season.