What Bug Is That? The guide to Australian insect families.

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Termitaphididae

Overview

These unusual insects are eyeless, wingless and resemble scale insects or small slaters.

Termitaphididae are found in termite nests where it is believed that they feed on fungal hyphae. Like the Aradidae their mandibular and maxillary stylets are coiled within the head when retracted. Little else is known of the biology of these curious bugs.

Distribution

A single species, Termitaradus australiensis , is found along the eastern coast of New South Wales and Queensland.

  • Termitaphididae; Termitaradus australiensis

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