Asian Rhagophthalmid Glowworm vs Black Forest Ground Beetle

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Asian Rhagophthalmid Glowworm Black Forest Ground Beetle
Scientific Name Rhagophthalmus ohbai Pterostichus niger
Order Coleoptera Coleoptera
Family Rhagophthalmidae Carabidae
Size 8-15 mm 16–24 mm
Habitat Grasslands Woodlands
Diet Predators Omnivores
Regions East Asia, Japan, Taiwan Europe, Northern Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Asian Rhagophthalmid Glowworm

A small beetle from the family Rhagophthalmidae with neotenic, larviform females that produce a bright continuous glow. Males are winged with large eyes and reduced mouthparts.

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Did You Know?

The family Rhagophthalmidae was only recently separated from Phengodidae based on molecular evidence, despite superficial similarities.

Black Forest Ground Beetle

A large jet-black ground beetle common in European forests and damp woodlands. It is one of the largest Pterostichus species in its range.

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Did You Know?

Despite being flightless, it can cover surprisingly large distances on foot during its nightly foraging walks.