About 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.
How to Identify Japanese Blister Beetle
Japanese Blister Beetle (Epicauta gorhami) belongs to the order Coleoptera, family Meloidae. Adults typically measure 12-18 mm.
Japanese Blister Beetle Habitat
Japanese Blister Beetle is found in farmland habitats, particularly across East Asia, Japan/Korea. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Japanese Blister Beetle Diet and Feeding
Japanese Blister Beetle is a predatory species that actively hunts and feeds on other insects and small invertebrates. As a predator, it helps control populations of pest species and maintains ecological balance.
Where Is Japanese Blister Beetle Found?
Japanese Blister Beetle can be found in East Asia, Japan/Korea, where it inhabits farmland environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Japanese Blister Beetle can be found
Is Japanese Blister Beetle Dangerous?
Japanese Blister Beetle is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.
Japanese Blister Beetle Role in Nature
Japanese Blister Beetle serves as a natural predator, helping to control populations of other insects. Predatory insects are valuable in both natural ecosystems and agriculture, where they reduce the numbers of pest species without the need for chemical pesticides.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Japanese Blister Beetle
What does Japanese Blister Beetle look like?
The Japanese Blister Beetle typically measures 12-18 mm.
Where is Japanese Blister Beetle found?
The Japanese Blister Beetle is found in East Asia, Japan/Korea and typically inhabits farmland environments.
What does Japanese Blister Beetle eat?
The Japanese Blister Beetle is a predator that hunts and feeds on other insects and small invertebrates.
Is Japanese Blister Beetle dangerous to humans?
The Japanese Blister Beetle is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Japanese Blister Beetle?
When disturbed, this beetle exudes hemolymph containing cantharidin from its leg joints, which can cause painful blisters on human skin.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Japanese Blister Beetle (Epicauta gorhami). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/japanese-blister-beetle
MLA:
"Japanese Blister Beetle." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/japanese-blister-beetle.