Orientalis Subterranean Termite vs Ponderous Borer
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Orientalis Subterranean Termite | Ponderous Borer |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Reticulitermes speratus | Trichocnemis spiculatus |
| Order | Blattodea | Coleoptera |
| Family | Rhinotermitidae | Cerambycidae |
| Size | 4-6 mm | 40-60 mm |
| Habitat | Caves | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Wood Feeders | Wood Feeders |
| Regions | Japan, Korea, China | Western United States, British Columbia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
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.
Did You Know?
Asexual queen succession has been documented in this species, where the colony perpetuates through parthenogenetic queens produced by the original queen.
Ponderous Borer
One of the largest cerambycids in North America, this prionine breeds in the roots and lower trunks of dead ponderosa pines. Adults are dark brown with a somewhat rough body surface. They are nocturnal and attracted to lights.
Did You Know?
Larval development can take up to six years in dry dead wood, one of the longest development times for any beetle.