Stuff You Should Know How Fireflies and Lightning Bugs Work
Aug 12, 2021
Dive into the enchanting world of fireflies as the hosts explore their bioluminescent magic and cultural significance. They allure you with fun facts while tackling the causes behind their alarming decline. Discover the fascinating science of how these tiny creatures produce their mesmerizing glow and their critical role in the ecosystem. With a blend of humor and insight, learn what you can do to help preserve these nighttime jewels and rekindle the joy they bring to our evenings.
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Firefly vs. Lightning Bug
- "Fireflies" and "lightning bugs" are used interchangeably.
- Some researchers use "fireflies" as an umbrella term.
Fireflies are Beetles
- Fireflies are beetles, not flies, belonging to the Coleoptera order.
- This fact is great for impressing people at parties.
Bioluminescence in Fireflies
- Fireflies produce light through a chemical reaction involving luciferin, luciferase, oxygen, and ATP.
- This "cold light" is 100% efficient, emitting no heat.