Magnetic termite. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of a soldier of the magnetic termite. With large jaws the soldier caste are modified to defend the colony. Amitermes meridionalis, commonly known as the magnetic termite or compass termite, is a species of eusocial insect in the family Termitidae. It is endemic to northern Australia and the common names derive from the fact that the wedge-shaped mound is aligned with its main axis running north and south. Magnification: x20 when printed at 10 centimetres wide