Savanna Cubitermes vs Asian Rhagophthalmid Glowworm

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Savanna Cubitermes Asian Rhagophthalmid Glowworm
Scientific Name Cubitermes severus Rhagophthalmus ohbai
Order Blattodea Coleoptera
Family Termitidae Rhagophthalmidae
Size 4-6 mm 8-15 mm
Habitat Grasslands Grasslands
Diet Fungus Feeders Predators
Regions West Africa East Asia, Japan, Taiwan
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Savanna Cubitermes

A soil-feeding termite building characteristic mushroom-shaped mounds in West African savannas. Workers process large amounts of mineral soil for organic nutrients. The distinctive mound cap sheds rainwater away from the colony.

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Did You Know?

The mound's cap structure is added in stages, with each new layer extending outward like an umbrella to protect lower portions from heavy tropical rains.

Asian Rhagophthalmid Glowworm

A small beetle from the family Rhagophthalmidae with neotenic, larviform females that produce a bright continuous glow. Males are winged with large eyes and reduced mouthparts.

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Did You Know?

The family Rhagophthalmidae was only recently separated from Phengodidae based on molecular evidence, despite superficial similarities.