Japanese Blister Beetle vs Philippine Milk Termite
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Japanese Blister Beetle | Philippine Milk Termite |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Epicauta gorhami | Coptotermes vastator |
| Order | Coleoptera | Blattodea |
| Family | Meloidae | Rhinotermitidae |
| Size | 12-18 mm | 4-6 mm |
| Habitat | Farmland | Farmland |
| Diet | Predators | Wood Feeders |
| Regions | East Asia, Japan/Korea | Philippines |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Japanese Blister Beetle
A black and orange striped blister beetle found in Japan and Korea. Known as 'tsuchi-hanmyo.' Contains cantharidin, a blistering agent, in its body fluids as a defense against predators.
Did You Know?
When disturbed, this beetle exudes hemolymph containing cantharidin from its leg joints, which can cause painful blisters on human skin.
Philippine Milk Termite
The most destructive termite species in the Philippines, causing severe damage to buildings, trees, and crops. Colonies can be enormous with millions of workers. Soldiers produce a white, milky defensive secretion from the frontal gland.
Did You Know?
This species is so destructive in the Philippines that entire coconut plantations have been devastated, leading to major government-funded control programs.