Globitermes_sulphureus
Globitermes sulphureus
Species of Asian termite whose soldiers are known for their potentially suicidal attack.
Globitermes sulphureus (suicidal attack ants) is a species of termite that is very common in central and southern Vietnam[2] and also present in other areas of South East Asia, including Cambodia, Thailand, and Peninsular Malaysia.[1][3][4] They live in nests made of earth that can be up to 1.5 m tall and can contain tens of thousands of individuals. Between five and 10 per cent of the population are soldier termites which can be recognised by their yellow abdomen and two large, curved mandibles. The termites use autothysis as a defense mechanism.[2]