Mustard Beetle vs Heike Firefly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Mustard Beetle Heike Firefly
Scientific Name Phaedon cochleariae Luciola lateralis
Order Coleoptera Coleoptera
Family Chrysomelidae Lampyridae
Size 3-4 mm 7-10 mm
Habitat Farmland Farmland
Diet Herbivores Omnivores
Regions Europe Japan, Korean Peninsula
Conservation Least Concern Near Threatened

Mustard Beetle

A small metallic blue-black beetle that feeds on watercress, mustard and other crucifers. Both adults and larvae damage crops. Common in damp habitats near streams.

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Did You Know?

Commercial watercress growers regard this tiny beetle as one of their most persistent pest problems.

Heike Firefly

A Japanese firefly associated with rice paddies, smaller than the Genji firefly. It flashes more rapidly and is found in lowland wetland habitats.

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Did You Know?

It is named after the Heike clan from Japanese history and is celebrated alongside the Genji firefly in summer festivals.