Asian Rhagophthalmid Glowworm vs Eastern Tailed-Blue

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Asian Rhagophthalmid Glowworm Eastern Tailed-Blue
Scientific Name Rhagophthalmus ohbai Cupido comyntas
Order Coleoptera Lepidoptera
Family Rhagophthalmidae Lycaenidae
Size 8-15 mm 20-29 mm wingspan
Habitat Grasslands Grasslands
Diet Predators Nectar Feeders
Regions East Asia, Japan, Taiwan North America
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.

💡

Did You Know?

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

Eastern Tailed-Blue

Tiny blue butterfly with thin tails on the hindwings and orange spots near the tail. One of the smallest and most common butterflies in eastern North America.

💡

Did You Know?

Its tiny hindwing tails mimic antennae, tricking predators into attacking the wrong end.