West African Fungus-Growing Termite vs Mound-building Termite
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | West African Fungus-Growing Termite | Mound-building Termite |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Macrotermes subhyalinus | Macrotermes gilvus |
| Order | Blattodea | Blattodea |
| Family | Termitidae | Termitidae |
| Size | 3-18 mm | 5-12 mm |
| Habitat | Deserts & Drylands | Farmland |
| Diet | Fungus Feeders | Fungus Feeders |
| Regions | West Africa, East Africa | Southeast Asia, from India to the Philippines |
| 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.
Mound-building Termite
A fungus-growing termite widespread across Southeast Asia that builds subterranean to semi-subterranean nests with low mound structures. It is a significant pest of rubber, coconut, and oil palm plantations. Workers forage via covered galleries.
Did You Know?
In parts of Thailand and Laos, the winged reproductives of this species are fried and eaten as a popular seasonal snack during the early rainy season.