Mound-building Termite vs Malagasy Drywood Termite
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Mound-building Termite | Malagasy Drywood Termite |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Macrotermes gilvus | Cryptotermes kirbyi |
| Order | Blattodea | Blattodea |
| Family | Termitidae | Kalotermitidae |
| Size | 5-12 mm | 4-6 mm |
| Habitat | Farmland | Woodlands |
| Diet | Fungus Feeders | Wood Feeders |
| Regions | Southeast Asia, from India to the Philippines | Madagascar |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
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.
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.