Subterranean Termite vs Green Banana Cockroach

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Subterranean Termite Green Banana Cockroach
Scientific Name Reticulitermes flavipes Panchlora nivea
Order Blattodea Blattodea
Family Rhinotermitidae Blaberidae
Size 4-8 mm 12-24 mm
Habitat Underground Heathland
Diet Wood Feeders Fruit Feeders
Regions North America Central America, North America, South America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Subterranean Termite

The most economically destructive termite species in North America, living in underground colonies that can number in the millions. Workers forage through soil to reach wood.

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Did You Know?

Eastern subterranean termites cause an estimated five billion dollars in property damage annually in the United States alone.

Green Banana Cockroach

A small, bright green cockroach often mistaken for a leaf or small moth. It is a strong flier attracted to lights and lives outdoors in tropical regions.

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Did You Know?

The vivid green color of this cockroach comes from a combination of pigments in its cuticle rather than from chlorophyll or plant-derived compounds.