Nevada Dampwood Termite vs Dark-winged Fungus Gnat

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Nevada Dampwood Termite Dark-winged Fungus Gnat
Scientific Name Zootermopsis nevadensis Sciara hemerobioides
Order Blattodea Diptera
Family Archotermopsidae Mycetophilidae
Size 10-18 mm 4-6 mm
Habitat Woodlands Woodlands
Diet Wood Feeders Fungus Feeders
Regions Western United States, from Montana to California Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

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-winged Fungus Gnat

A small, dark fungus gnat with smoky wings and long slender antennae. Its larvae are known for forming spectacular marching columns of thousands of individuals.

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Did You Know?

Larvae form army-like processions of thousands marching in columns across forest floors, a phenomenon called 'Heerwurm' in German.