Japanese Diving Beetle vs Lesser Earwig
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Japanese Diving Beetle | Lesser Earwig |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Cybister japonicus | Labia minor |
| Order | Coleoptera | Dermaptera |
| Family | Dytiscidae | Spongiphoridae |
| Size | 30-38 mm | 5-7 mm |
| Habitat | Ponds & Lakes | Gardens |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | Japan, Korean Peninsula | Europe, North America, Asia |
| Conservation | Vulnerable | Least Concern |
Japanese Diving Beetle
A large diving beetle native to Japan, once common but now increasingly rare. It has suffered severe declines due to habitat loss and invasive species.
Did You Know?
The American bullfrog, introduced to Japan, is a major predator of this beetle and a key driver of its decline.
Lesser Earwig
The smallest European earwig and one of the few that readily flies. It is often found in compost heaps and manure piles where it feeds on fly larvae.
Did You Know?
Despite its tiny size, this earwig is one of the best fliers in the order and is regularly attracted to artificial lights.