Korean Water Scorpion vs Japanese Blister Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Korean Water Scorpion | Japanese Blister Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Laccotrephes japonensis | Epicauta gorhami |
| Order | Hemiptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Nepidae | Meloidae |
| Size | 30-38 mm | 12-18 mm |
| Habitat | Ponds & Lakes | Farmland |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | East Asia, Japan/Korea | East Asia, Japan/Korea |
| 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.
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.
Japanese Blister Beetle
A black and orange striped blister beetle found in Japan and Korea. Known as 'tsuchi-hanmyo.' Contains cantharidin, a blistering agent, in its body fluids as a defense against predators.
Did You Know?
When disturbed, this beetle exudes hemolymph containing cantharidin from its leg joints, which can cause painful blisters on human skin.