Composition, DOF, sharpness is all in your favor here. I feel that the process needs more work. I sometimes find that going to JPG creates more contrast though I think here you started off with more contrast then you needed. Probably due to a bit too much flash. If RAW, go back in and correct for the highlights. In PS a reverse "s" curve can help to relieve excessive contrast.
I really admire your diplomatic skills :)
I have made a new Copy from NEF in Lightroom + levels in PS and less sharpening + Noise Ninja. I find it gives more credit to the Bug with more color details.. Not so " Alien " like.