Japanese Blister Beetle vs Two-Spot Ladybird
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Japanese Blister Beetle | Two-Spot Ladybird |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Epicauta gorhami | Adalia bipunctata |
| Order | Coleoptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Meloidae | Coccinellidae |
| Size | 12-18 mm | 4-5 mm |
| Habitat | Farmland | Woodlands |
| Diet | Predators | Omnivores |
| Regions | East Asia, Japan/Korea | Europe, Western Asia |
| 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.
Two-Spot Ladybird
A small ladybird typically red with two black spots, though melanic (black with red spots) forms are also common. Populations have declined in areas invaded by the harlequin ladybird.
Did You Know?
The melanic (black) form is more common in polluted industrial cities because dark beetles warm up faster in weak sunlight.