About Japanese Copper
The Japanese subspecies of the small copper butterfly, known as 'beni-shijimi.' A small but brilliantly colored butterfly with fiery orange-copper wings. One of the most common butterflies in Japan.
Did You Know?
Male small coppers are aggressively territorial and will challenge insects much larger than themselves, including large butterflies and dragonflies.
How to Identify Japanese Copper
Japanese Copper (Lycaena phlaeas daimio) belongs to the order Lepidoptera, family Lycaenidae. Adults typically measure 22-30 mm wingspan.
Japanese Copper Habitat
Japanese Copper is found in underground habitats, particularly across East Asia, Japan. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Japanese Copper Diet and Feeding
Japanese Copper feeds primarily on nectar from flowers. In doing so, it acts as an important pollinator, transferring pollen between plants and contributing to plant reproduction and biodiversity.
Where Is Japanese Copper Found?
Japanese Copper can be found in East Asia, Japan, where it inhabits underground environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Japanese Copper can be found
Is Japanese Copper Dangerous?
Japanese Copper 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 Copper Role in Nature
Japanese Copper plays an important role as a pollinator. By visiting flowers to feed on nectar or pollen, it transfers pollen between plants, aiding in reproduction and helping to maintain plant diversity. Pollinators are essential for the production of many fruits, vegetables, and wildflowers.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Japanese Copper
What does Japanese Copper look like?
The Japanese Copper typically measures 22-30 mm wingspan.
Where is Japanese Copper found?
The Japanese Copper is found in East Asia, Japan and typically inhabits underground environments.
What does Japanese Copper eat?
The Japanese Copper feeds primarily on nectar from flowers.
Is Japanese Copper dangerous to humans?
The Japanese Copper is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Japanese Copper?
Male small coppers are aggressively territorial and will challenge insects much larger than themselves, including large butterflies and dragonflies.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Japanese Copper (Lycaena phlaeas daimio). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/japanese-copper
MLA:
"Japanese Copper." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/japanese-copper.