Japanese Blister Beetle vs Red-tipped Flower Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Japanese Blister Beetle | Red-tipped Flower Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Epicauta gorhami | Malachius bipustulatus |
| Order | Coleoptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Meloidae | Melyridae |
| Size | 12-18 mm | 5-7 mm |
| Habitat | Farmland | Underground |
| Diet | Predators | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | East Asia, Japan/Korea | Europe |
| 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.
Red-tipped Flower Beetle
A small metallic green beetle with bright red tips on each elytron. Males can evert orange vesicles from their thorax as a display.
Did You Know?
Males produce pheromone-laden secretions from thoracic vesicles that females lick during courtship.