also: へいけぼたる
noun
Aquatica lateralis (firefly species)
A species of firefly found in Japan, known as the Heike firefly. The name contrasts with the larger Genji firefly (ゲンジボタル).
夏の夜、川の近くでヘイケボタルが光っているのを見た。
On a summer night, I saw Heike fireflies glowing near the river.
Hiragana spelling, also common.
Kanji spelling is rare and mainly used in scientific or literary contexts.
The Genji firefly (Luciola cruciata) is larger and more famous than the Heike firefly. Both are common in Japan, but Genji fireflies are often associated with classic firefly viewing.
Named after the Heike clan (平家), contrasting with the Genji firefly (ゲンジボタル) named after the Genji clan (源氏). The name reflects the historical rivalry between the two clans.