Japanese Dobsonfly vs Cottonwood Borer
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Japanese Dobsonfly | Cottonwood Borer |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Protohermes grandis | Plectrodera scalator |
| Order | Megaloptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Corydalidae | Cerambycidae |
| Size | 40-60 mm body length | 25-40 mm |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Predators | Root Feeders |
| Regions | East Asia, Japan | Central and eastern United States |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Japanese Dobsonfly
A large aquatic insect known as 'hebi-tonbo' (snake dragonfly) in Japanese. The adult males have elongated, curved mandibles. Larvae called 'magotaro-mushi' are used as fishing bait.
Did You Know?
Dobsonfly larvae are prized as live fishing bait in Japan and are collected from stream rocks by anglers targeting ayu (sweetfish).
Cottonwood Borer
A large longhorn beetle with bold black and white patterning and long antennae. Its larvae bore into the roots and lower trunks of cottonwood and willow trees.
Did You Know?
When handled, it produces a loud squeaking sound by rubbing parts of its thorax together.