Western Subterranean Termite vs Clavigerite Ant Beetle

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Western Subterranean Termite Clavigerite Ant Beetle
Scientific Name Reticulitermes hesperus Claviger testaceus
Order Blattodea Coleoptera
Family Rhinotermitidae Staphylinidae
Size 4–8 mm 2-3 mm
Habitat Underground Underground
Diet Wood Feeders Omnivores
Regions Western North America Europe
Conservation Not Evaluated Least Concern

Western Subterranean Termite

The most common structural pest termite in western North America. Colonies build extensive underground tunnel networks connecting to above-ground wood sources.

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Did You Know?

A single colony can contain over one million individuals and forage across an area of half an acre.

Clavigerite Ant Beetle

A tiny, blind, wingless rove beetle that is an obligate guest of Lasius ant colonies. It has lost its eyes and developed specialized trichomes that secrete ant-appeasing compounds.

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Did You Know?

It is so dependent on ants that it cannot survive more than a few hours outside their nest.