These tiny fliers can produce light without heat, through a process called bioluminescence. Unlike an ordinary light bulb that wastes energy as heat, fireflies convert nearly 100% of their energy into light – a level of efficiency that human technology has yet to match.
• Why they glow
Each species has its own signaling code used to attract mates. Males fly around, emitting specific light patterns, while females respond from the grass with coded "answers."
• A message that glows in the dark
These tiny beetles are not only spectacular, but also indicators of ecosystem health. When fireflies disappear, it means the surrounding nature is also suffering.
• Even their larvae can glow
Few people know that bioluminescence is not limited to adults. Firefly larvae, which live in soil or damp areas, can also emit a faint light. This is believed to be a defense mechanism, signaling to predators that they are toxic or hard to digest. Although they don’t fly or flash spectacularly, these early life stages of fireflies still make their presence known in the dark.
• They’re disappearing, but few notice
In recent years, firefly populations have begun to decline in many regions due to habitat loss, light pollution, and pesticides. Because they are only active for a few weeks each year, many people don’t even realize that these spectacular insects are becoming increasingly rare
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