Pergid Leaf Miner vs African Harvester Termite

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Pergid Leaf Miner African Harvester Termite
Scientific Name Phylacteophaga froggatti Microhodotermes viator
Order Hymenoptera Blattodea
Family Pergidae Hodotermitidae
Size 4-6 mm 6-10 mm
Habitat Farmland Heathland
Diet Herbivores Herbivores
Regions Australia, introduced to parts of Africa and South America Western Cape, South Africa
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Pergid Leaf Miner

A small sawfly whose larvae create blister-like mines in eucalyptus leaves. Adults are small and brownish with clear wings.

💡

Did You Know?

This species has become a significant pest in eucalyptus plantations outside Australia, particularly in the Mediterranean region and Africa.

African Harvester Termite

A harvester termite found in the fynbos and semi-arid regions of the Western Cape in South Africa. Workers have pigmented eyes and forage on the surface for grass and plant material. Colonies build subterranean nests with extensive tunnel systems.

💡

Did You Know?

This species creates 'heuweltjies' (small mounds) in the fynbos landscape that are visible in satellite imagery and may persist for thousands of years.