Japanese Blister Beetle vs Toadflax Stem Weevil
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Japanese Blister Beetle | Toadflax Stem Weevil |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Epicauta gorhami | Mecinus janthinus |
| Order | Coleoptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Meloidae | Curculionidae |
| Size | 12-18 mm | 3-4 mm |
| Habitat | Farmland | Grasslands |
| Diet | Predators | Herbivores |
| 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.
Toadflax Stem Weevil
A dark metallic blue-purple weevil that feeds on toadflax species. Successfully used as a biological control agent for invasive Dalmatian toadflax in North America.
Did You Know?
Released in North America as biological control, where it has successfully suppressed invasive Dalmatian toadflax.