Powderpost Drywood Termite vs Freeze-Tolerant Cockroach

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Powderpost Drywood Termite Freeze-Tolerant Cockroach
Scientific Name Cryptotermes domesticus Periplaneta japonica
Order Blattodea Blattodea
Family Kalotermitidae Blattidae
Size Workers 3-5 mm, soldiers 4-5 mm 25-35 mm
Habitat Woodlands Woodlands
Diet Wood Feeders Omnivores
Regions Tropical Asia, Pacific Islands Asia, North America (invasive)
Conservation Not Evaluated Least Concern

Powderpost Drywood Termite

A destructive drywood termite that reduces wood to a fine powder. It is a major pest of wooden structures across tropical Asia.

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Did You Know?

Infested timber can appear intact on the surface while being completely hollow and powder-filled inside.

Freeze-Tolerant Cockroach

An invasive cockroach from Asia first found in New York City in 2012. Unlike other cockroach species, it can survive outdoors through freezing winters.

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Did You Know?

This is the only cockroach species in New York that can survive the citys harsh winters outdoors — it was first discovered on the High Line elevated park in Manhattan.