Japanese Genji Firefly vs Keeled Skimmer
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Japanese Genji Firefly | Keeled Skimmer |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Luciola cruciata | Orthetrum coerulescens |
| Order | Coleoptera | Odonata |
| Family | Lampyridae | Libellulidae |
| Size | 12-18 mm | 36-45mm |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Omnivores | Predators |
| Regions | Japan | Europe, Africa |
| Conservation | Vulnerable | Least Concern |
Japanese Genji Firefly
An aquatic-larval firefly revered in Japanese culture, found near clean streams. It is one of the few fireflies whose larvae develop entirely in freshwater.
Did You Know?
Annual firefly-viewing festivals called hotarugari have been held in Japan for over a thousand years in honor of this species.
Keeled Skimmer
A slender dragonfly where mature males develop a powder-blue abdomen. Females and immature males are yellowish-brown. It flies low over shallow boggy streams and seepages.
Did You Know?
It is an indicator species for high-quality wet heathland, and its presence suggests good habitat condition.