Japanese Leaf Beetle vs Splendid Jewel Beetle

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Japanese Leaf Beetle Splendid Jewel Beetle
Scientific Name Lilioceris merdigera Buprestis splendens
Order Coleoptera Coleoptera
Family Chrysomelidae Buprestidae
Size 6-7 mm 15-21 mm
Habitat Underground Forests
Diet Herbivores Wood Feeders
Regions Europe, Asia Southern Europe
Conservation Least Concern Critically Endangered

Japanese Leaf Beetle

A small, bright red beetle similar in appearance to the scarlet lily beetle but with red legs instead of black. It is commonly called the onion leaf beetle in Europe.

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Did You Know?

Its species name 'merdigera' means 'dung-bearer,' referring to the larval behavior of covering themselves in their own excrement.

Splendid Jewel Beetle

A spectacularly metallic green and gold jewel beetle found only in old-growth forests. Develops in ancient pine trees. One of Europe's rarest beetles due to loss of old-growth forest.

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Did You Know?

Requires pine trees over 200 years old to complete its development, making ancient forests essential for survival.