Processional Termite vs Javanese Subterranean Termite

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Processional Termite Javanese Subterranean Termite
Scientific Name Hospitalitermes medioflavus Schedorhinotermes javanicus
Order Blattodea Blattodea
Family Termitidae Rhinotermitidae
Size 3-5 mm 4-8 mm
Habitat Forests Woodlands
Diet Omnivores Wood Feeders
Regions Borneo, Peninsular Malaysia Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Processional Termite

An open-trail foraging termite found in Borneo's rainforests that travels in long exposed columns through the forest. Workers carry balls of lichen and soil in their mandibles back to the nest. The species is notable for its bold, exposed foraging behavior.

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Did You Know?

Workers carry a conspicuous ball of food material on their heads during the return march, making the foraging columns look like miniature processions.

Javanese Subterranean Termite

A subterranean termite found throughout Southeast Asia with a distinctive dimorphic soldier caste consisting of both major and minor soldiers. Major soldiers have large, sickle-shaped mandibles while minor soldiers have smaller heads. Colonies nest in soil and dead wood.

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Did You Know?

The two distinct soldier types work cooperatively in defense, with minor soldiers forming a fast-response first line while major soldiers deliver powerful crushing bites.