Nevada Dampwood Termite vs Dark Mound Termite

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Nevada Dampwood Termite Dark Mound Termite
Scientific Name Zootermopsis nevadensis Macrotermes carbonarius
Order Blattodea Blattodea
Family Archotermopsidae Termitidae
Size 10-18 mm 5–12 mm
Habitat Woodlands Woodlands
Diet Wood Feeders Fungus Feeders
Regions Western United States, from Montana to California Southeast Asia
Conservation Least Concern Not Evaluated

Nevada Dampwood Termite

A large dampwood termite found in mountainous regions of western North America. Colonies inhabit moist, decaying wood of coniferous and deciduous trees. The species is notable for its primitive social organization and flexible caste determination.

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Did You Know?

Individuals in this species can change between worker and soldier castes depending on colony needs, showing remarkable developmental flexibility.

Dark Mound Termite

A large fungus-growing termite found across Southeast Asia that builds conspicuous dark mounds. Workers process dead wood through underground fungal gardens.

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Did You Know?

The Termitomyces mushrooms that fruit from its mounds are prized as a delicacy across Southeast Asia.