[2] In 2010, Fu, Ballantyne and Lambkin transferred it and three other Luciola species to the new genus Aquatica.

The male has an oblong aedeagal sheath, around 2.0 mm (0.079 in) long, and elongate and subparallel genitalia.

[2] The larva has gills and glands that secrete protective substances.

[4] A. ficta is found in Guizhou, Fujian, Hong Kong and Taiwan.

It is commonly found in still water and rice paddies, and the larvae prefer muddy substrate.