Korean Water Scorpion vs Chinese Rhagophthalmid Glowworm

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Korean Water Scorpion Chinese Rhagophthalmid Glowworm
Scientific Name Laccotrephes japonensis Rhagophthalmus lufengensis
Order Hemiptera Coleoptera
Family Nepidae Rhagophthalmidae
Size 30-38 mm 10-18 mm
Habitat Ponds & Lakes Forests
Diet Predators Predators
Regions East Asia, Japan/Korea East Asia, China
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Korean Water Scorpion

A flat, leaf-shaped aquatic predator found in Japan and Korea. Despite its name, it is not a true scorpion but a true bug with raptorial forelegs. Breathes through a siphon-like tail appendage.

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Did You Know?

The long breathing siphon at the rear works like a snorkel, allowing the water scorpion to breathe while remaining submerged and hidden among leaf litter.

Chinese Rhagophthalmid Glowworm

A bioluminescent beetle from southern China with larviform females that emit a steady greenish glow from ventral light organs. Males have well-developed wings but vestigial mouthparts.

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Did You Know?

This species has been studied for its unique luciferase, which differs significantly from that of the related firefly family Lampyridae.