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Lethocerus deyrollei
Japan's largest aquatic insect at ~65mm. Captures prey with front legs, injecting digestive fluid. Classified as Vulnerable. Some breeders contribute to conservation through captive breeding.
The giant water bug (Lethocerus deyrollei) is the largest aquatic insect in Japan, reaching about 65 mm. A powerful predator, it seizes fish and frogs with raptorial forelegs and injects digestive fluids to consume their body fluids. In Japan it is listed as Vulnerable due to habitat loss, and some breeders work on captive propagation for conservation. Husbandry uses an aquarium with sufficient water depth, plus footing and emergent structures for breathing. Live prey such as small fish is offered. Managing water quality and temperature is important, and overcrowding is avoided to prevent cannibalism. It is a valuable aquatic insect emblematic of Japans countryside wetlands.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Giant Water Bug lives 1-3 years.
The Giant Water Bug grows to 55-68mm.
The ideal temperature for the Giant Water Bug is 18〜28℃.
Origin
Japan and East Asia
Lifespan
1-3 years
Size
55-68mm
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Lethocerus deyrollei (Vuillefroy, 1864)
Synonyms: Lethocerus deyrollei, Belostoma aberrans Mayr, 1871, Lethocerus deyrollei (Vuillefroy, 1864)
Authority databases: GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Domestic law: The Japanese giant water bug (Lethocerus deyrollei) was designated a Class II Nationally Rare Species of Wild Fauna and Flora under Japan's Act on Conservation of Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora on 10 February 2020. Capture and transfer for the purpose of sale or distribution are prohibited (the restriction applies to wild individuals; listed as Vulnerable (VU) on the Ministry of the Environment Red List). Not listed under CITES.
Sources: Ministry of the Environment Domestic Rare Wildlife Species List (Law for the Conservation of Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) / CITES Appendix (checklist.cites.org)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Temperature
18〜28℃
Humidity
60〜90%
Live prey: medaka, loaches, tadpoles
Water depth 10-15cm. Add branches and aquatic plants as footholds
Live prey every 2-3 days. Medaka are easiest to handle
Lays eggs on stick above water. Male guards and moistens eggs
Protected species. Obtain only legally bred specimens
Advanced. This is an advanced-level species. It requires specialized equipment and advanced husbandry skills with precise environmental control.
The ideal temperature for Giant Water Bug is 18〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Giant Water Bug is 1-3 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Giant Water Bug typically reaches 55-68mm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Giant Water Bug feeds on: Live prey: medaka, loaches, tadpoles. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Giant Water Bug varies significantly depending on bloodline, size, captive-bred generation, and sex. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: August 31, 2026