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How to Tell the Difference Between an Ant and a Termite

By Debbie Hadley, About.com

Ant.

Ants have elbowed antennae and obvious "waist" between the thorax and abdomen.

Photo: © David Ellis, morguefile

People often confuse ants and termites. Both insects live in social colonies, and may take up residence in or near your home. Knowing how to identify ants and termites will help you decide when to call the exterminator. While they appear similar at first, a closer look reveals some distinct differences.

Differences Between Ants and Termites

CharacteristicAntTermite
Antennaeelbowed (a distinct bend in each antenna)looks like a string of beads
Waistpresentabsent
Eyescompoundnone
Abdomenslightly pointedrounded end

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