Subterranean Termite vs Hermit Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Subterranean Termite | Hermit Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Reticulitermes flavipes | Osmoderma eremita |
| Order | Blattodea | Coleoptera |
| Family | Rhinotermitidae | Scarabaeidae |
| Size | 4-8 mm | 25-35 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Woodlands |
| Diet | Wood Feeders | Wood Feeders |
| Regions | North America | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Near Threatened |
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.
Did You Know?
Eastern subterranean termites cause an estimated five billion dollars in property damage annually in the United States alone.
Hermit Beetle
A large, dark chestnut beetle that lives its entire life inside hollow old trees. It emits a strong fruity odor similar to apricots.
Did You Know?
Most individuals never leave the tree they are born in, making them extremely poor colonizers.