A new species of termite has been discovered in the canopies of a South American rainforest, bringing the total number of known Cryptotermes termites in the region to 16.
The soldier termite, named Cryptotermes mobydicki by an international team of scientists led by University of Florida professor Rudolf Scheffrahn, has unique features that resemble those of a sperm whale. Its elongated head and hidden mandibles are reminiscent of the iconic creature from herman Melville’s classic novel.
“This termite is unlike anything we’ve ever seen,” saeid Scheffrahn. “The lateral view of the soldier’s frontal prominence and elongated head resembles that of a sperm whale,with its eye positioned similarly to that of a soldier’s antennal socket. After I noticed this resemblance,my coauthors thought it would be an appropriate and whimsical name for this unique species.”
The finding adds to our understanding of termite evolution as well as biodiversity in tropical ecosystems. The genetic analysis of Cryptotermes mobydicki shows that it is indeed closely related to other neotropical species found in Colombia, Trinidad, and the Dominican Republic.
The colony was found in a dead tree about eight meters off the forest floor. This discovery highlights the vast number of unnamed organisms still waiting to be discovered on our planet.
“The discovery of this distinctive new termite species underscores the importance of continued research and exploration,” said Scheffrahn. “Every new species adds to our understanding of life on earth.”
Fortunately for Florida property owners,Cryptotermes mobydicki poses no threat as it is only found in its rainforest habitat and does not spread beyond it.unlike other invasive termites that cause costly damage in parts of the southeastern United States, this species is not a concern for homes or trade.
New Research Article:
Scheffrahn RH, buček A, Sillam-Dussès D, Šobotník J (2025) Cryptotermes mobydicki (Isoptera,Kalotermitidae), an remarkable new termite species from French Guiana. ZooKeys 1258: 305-311.https://doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1258.166021
Story originally published by: Lourdes Mederos, University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS). Republished with permission.
Nature always surprises us with its incredible diversity and creativity!