Subterranean Termite vs West African Lantern Bug
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Subterranean Termite | West African Lantern Bug |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Reticulitermes flavipes | Zanna tenebrosa |
| Order | Blattodea | Hemiptera |
| Family | Rhinotermitidae | Fulgoridae |
| Size | 4-8 mm | 50-70 mm including head process |
| Habitat | Underground | Forests |
| Diet | Wood Feeders | Wood Feeders |
| Regions | North America | West and Central Africa (Cameroon, Gabon, DRC, Nigeria) |
| 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.
Did You Know?
Eastern subterranean termites cause an estimated five billion dollars in property damage annually in the United States alone.
West African Lantern Bug
A large planthopper with an elongated head process and colorful wings. The forewings are cryptically patterned while the hindwings display bright colors when spread. Despite its name, it does not produce light.
Did You Know?
The enlarged head process was once thought to glow in the dark, giving this group its misleading common name of lantern bugs.