Sphaerotermes Mushroom-comb Termite vs Sand Cockroach
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Sphaerotermes Mushroom-comb Termite | Sand Cockroach |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Sphaerotermes sphaerothorax | Arenivaga investigata |
| Order | Blattodea | Blattodea |
| Family | Termitidae | Corydiidae |
| Size | 3-5 mm | 15-25 mm |
| Habitat | Forests | Deserts & Drylands |
| Diet | Fungus Feeders | Detritivores |
| Regions | Central Africa, Congo Basin | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Sphaerotermes Mushroom-comb Termite
An African fungus-growing termite with a unique fungus cultivation strategy. Unlike other fungiculturists that grow Termitomyces, this species cultivates a different lineage of fungus. Colonies build subterranean nests in tropical forest soils.
Did You Know?
This is the only termite genus known to independently evolved fungus farming using a different fungal partner than the widespread Termitomyces association.
Sand Cockroach
A desert cockroach that extracts water vapor from moist sand through special mouthparts.
Did You Know?
It can absorb atmospheric water vapor at humidities as low as 83 percent.