What is the difference between Ants and Termites – D-Tec Pest Solutions
A common question we receive is "what is the difference between Ants and Termites". There are a few different characteristics to distinguish between these two insects. Many Clients are often confused between them, but there are some physical and behavioural differences.
Termite vs Ants
To the untrained eye Termites and Ants can look very similar. People see them because they are the same size and look the same in shape that they don't know the difference. So what is the differences between termite vs ants? Below we list the differences so you can distinguish between the two.
Physical Differences
Starting at the top of the insect, Ants have a elbowed antennae that is segmented and Termites have a straight, beaded antennae. With the abdomen you will find that an Ant has a pinched waste where as, a Termite has a thick waste.
The reproductive of both these insects both have wings, Ants have unequal length wings and Termites have equal length wings.
Termites are usually translucent in colour, they are normally white/cream (hence the nick name white ants) and Ants are darker in colour.
Behaviour Differences
The biggest behaviour difference is in terms of what they eat. Termites can digest cellulose so they eat wood, unfortunately for Homeowners, this can be a nightmare. Ants on the other hand eat sweet foods, plants, seeds, moss, fungus, other animals and insects.
The way they both search for food they also have different behaviours. Ants are usually above ground, foraging and in search of food, they leave pheromones for others to find a food source and go back to their colony. Most Termite species are subterranean and they eat the wood they travel through, they build galleries and mud tubes to protect themselves.
Are White Ants and Termites the same thing?
The answer is YES, White Ants and Termites are the same thing. White Ants are not Ants, in fact White Ants are more closely related to Cockroaches than Ants. It is believed that Termites evolved from the Cockroach, in particular they are closely related to the Wood Feeding Cockroach.
Controlling Termites and Ants around your property
Knowing the differences and behaviours can help you spot the difference of both species but controlling them is where a Professional can help you. We have fully trained Technician's that know the biology, ecology and how to control these pests around your home. You can learn more about how to treat for Ants and Termites on our Website or call our Office to protect your home on 1300 725 758.
