Subterranean Termite vs Hastatus Mound Termite

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Subterranean Termite Hastatus Mound Termite
Scientific Name Reticulitermes flavipes Tumulitermes hastilis
Order Blattodea Blattodea
Family Rhinotermitidae Termitidae
Size 4-8 mm 3-5 mm
Habitat Underground Grasslands
Diet Wood Feeders Herbivores
Regions North America Northern Australia
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.

Hastatus Mound Termite

An Australian nasute termite that builds small, spire-shaped mounds in northern tropical regions. Colonies are moderate-sized with highly organized foraging columns. Soldiers accompany workers on surface foraging expeditions.

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Did You Know?

The small spire-shaped mounds often occur in dense clusters, creating what appears to be a miniature city across the tropical grassland.