West African Fungus-Growing Termite vs Armored Ground Cricket
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | West African Fungus-Growing Termite | Armored Ground Cricket |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Macrotermes subhyalinus | Acanthoplus discoidalis |
| Order | Blattodea | Orthoptera |
| Family | Termitidae | Tettigoniidae |
| Size | 3-18 mm | 40-50mm |
| Habitat | Deserts & Drylands | Deserts & Drylands |
| Diet | Fungus Feeders | Carrion Feeders |
| Regions | West Africa, East Africa | Africa |
| Conservation | Not Evaluated | Least Concern |
West African Fungus-Growing Termite
A widespread African termite that builds large above-ground mounds and farms Termitomyces fungi. They are an important food source for humans and wildlife across West Africa.
Did You Know?
Their winged reproductive alates are collected and roasted as a protein-rich delicacy during annual swarming events.
Armored Ground Cricket
A large heavily armored katydid with sharp spines on its thorax and legs. It is flightless and moves in large migratory bands. When threatened, it can squirt hemolymph from its joints.
Did You Know?
Individuals in marching bands become cannibalistic, and those that stop moving are eaten by those behind them.