About Tropical Rough-headed Termite
A Neotropical subterranean termite and significant sugarcane pest in Brazil. Colonies are diffuse with interconnected subterranean galleries. Workers attack the roots and lower stems of sugarcane plants, often killing them.
Did You Know?
This species causes estimated losses of over $1 billion annually to the Brazilian sugarcane industry, making it one of the most economically damaging insects in South America.
How to Identify Tropical Rough-headed Termite
Tropical Rough-headed Termite (Heterotermes tenuis) belongs to the order Blattodea, family Rhinotermitidae. Adults typically measure 4-5 mm.
Tropical Rough-headed Termite Habitat
Tropical Rough-headed Termite is found in caves habitats, particularly across Brazil, South America. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Tropical Rough-headed Termite Diet and Feeding
Tropical Rough-headed Termite induces galls on plants and feeds within them. Gall-making insects trigger abnormal plant growth that provides both food and shelter for their developing larvae.
Where Is Tropical Rough-headed Termite Found?
Tropical Rough-headed Termite can be found in Brazil, South America, where it inhabits caves environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Tropical Rough-headed Termite can be found
Is Tropical Rough-headed Termite Dangerous?
Tropical Rough-headed Termite is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.
Tropical Rough-headed Termite Role in Nature
Tropical Rough-headed Termite is part of the food web as a primary consumer, feeding on plant material. It serves as an important food source for birds, bats, amphibians, and other insectivores, connecting plant energy to higher trophic levels.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Tropical Rough-headed Termite
What does Tropical Rough-headed Termite look like?
The Tropical Rough-headed Termite typically measures 4-5 mm.
Where is Tropical Rough-headed Termite found?
The Tropical Rough-headed Termite is found in Brazil, South America and typically inhabits caves environments.
What does Tropical Rough-headed Termite eat?
The Tropical Rough-headed Termite induces galls on plants and feeds within them.
Is Tropical Rough-headed Termite dangerous to humans?
The Tropical Rough-headed Termite is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Tropical Rough-headed Termite?
This species causes estimated losses of over $1 billion annually to the Brazilian sugarcane industry, making it one of the most economically damaging insects in South America.
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APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Tropical Rough-headed Termite (Heterotermes tenuis). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/tropical-rough-headed-termite
MLA:
"Tropical Rough-headed Termite." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/tropical-rough-headed-termite.