Bioluminescence of Fireflies
Table of Contents
Bioluminescence is how fireflies and other living organisms produce light. Bioluminescence is an interesting phenomenon that occurs in organisms such as fireflies. It is essentially light that comes from a chemical reaction that an organism produces within itself. Fireflies, also known as lightning bugs, are winged beetles with the ability to use bioluminescence.
Bioluminescence in Fireflies
Most creatures above the sea do not have the ability to create their own light. Fireflies are unique because they are one of the few species of insects with this type of special gift. Fireflies of both sexes use their light to attract potential mates. The sex of the firefly can be determined by the way it uses its light.
Fireflies create light with the help of four different chemicals. Luciferin, Luciferase, ATP, and oxygen are all combined to create the light that is seen when a firefly is seeking a potential mate. The section that produces light is located in the sixth or seventh abdominal section (Shelton).
The Origin of Lightning Bugs
The origin of lightning bugs is currently unknown to the scientific community. It’s possible that lightning bugs evolved from an earlier species of water beetles but this is currently just a theory. The terms fireflies and lightning bugs are often used interchangeably but the true scientific name for these insects is Lampyridae.
Lightning bugs usually prefer to reside in warm, humid climates as do other species of insects. They are often found in the Eastern half of the United States, east of Kansas (Firefly Files). Lightning bugs can be found throughout the world near lakes, ponds, or other wet and humid areas.
Popular References to Fireflies
Most people are fascinated with the concept of glowing insects that can create their own light. When fireflies light up a night sky it is often seen as romantic or beautiful. Several popular references have been made to fireflies including songs, movies, and books.
- The band Owl City created a hit song titled Fireflies. The song soared to popularity in late 2009.
- Fireflies in the Garden, released in 2009, was a movie about a family struggle.
- Fireflies by Julie Brinckloe is a children’s book about a young boy who is happy to have caught a jar full of fireflies.
Fireflies are a fascinating family of insects and they have captivated the hearts and imaginations of children and adults alike. For centuries, this fascination with fireflies has sparked a curiosity in those who wish to learn more about them. Fireflies are unique and may continue to teach people about the wonders of science.
Sources
- The Bioluminescence Web Page. www.lifesci.ucsb.edu
- “The Firefly Files.” iris.biosci.ohio-state.edu
- Shelton, Heather. “Bioluminescence: Fireflies and the Future.” serendip.brynmawr.edu
