Orientalis Subterranean Termite vs Pill Cockroach

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Orientalis Subterranean Termite Pill Cockroach
Scientific Name Reticulitermes speratus Perisphaerus pygmaeus
Order Blattodea Blattodea
Family Rhinotermitidae Blaberidae
Size 4-6 mm 8-12 mm
Habitat Caves Underground
Diet Wood Feeders Detritivores
Regions Japan, Korea, China Asia
Conservation Least Concern Data Deficient

Orientalis Subterranean Termite

The most economically important termite in Japan, causing significant damage to traditional wooden buildings and temples. Colonies are subterranean with diffuse nesting. Workers maintain elaborate tunnel networks connecting food sources.

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Did You Know?

Asexual queen succession has been documented in this species, where the colony perpetuates through parthenogenetic queens produced by the original queen.

Pill Cockroach

A tiny cockroach that rolls into a perfect ball like a pillbug when threatened.

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Did You Know?

Nymphs cling to the mother and feed on secretions from her body surface.