Asian Rhagophthalmid Glowworm vs Smooth Hister Beetle

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Asian Rhagophthalmid Glowworm Smooth Hister Beetle
Scientific Name Rhagophthalmus ohbai Margarinotus striola
Order Coleoptera Coleoptera
Family Rhagophthalmidae Histeridae
Size 8-15 mm 4-6 mm
Habitat Grasslands Indoors
Diet Predators Dung Feeders
Regions East Asia, Japan, Taiwan Europe, North Africa
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.

Smooth Hister Beetle

A compact, highly polished black beetle with fine elytral striations. It is one of the most common dung-dwelling hister beetles in Europe.

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Did You Know?

Its almost mirror-like surface is so smooth that dung and debris slide off its body, keeping it permanently clean.