Why and how do fireflies glow?

Ever wondered why fireflies glow or how they glow? Prepare for your mind to be blown! (Not literally).

Lets start off with how:
The glow is referred to by scientists as cold light which is something that we're trying to incorporate into our own lights. Cold light means that the light doesn't give off a lot of heat unlike our lamp bulbs that usually give you a nasty burn. The light is formed with a chemical reaction, there is an organic compound called luciferin in their abdomens (stomach.) When air goes into their abdomen this creates a chemical reaction making the glow that we're used to. Fireflies also known as lightning bugs can control the airflow to the abdomen hence it can create an on and off pattern!

---

Moving onto why:
It can be lovely and romantic though it can also be deadly! Let's find out why!
Fireflies use them to attract mates. Males signal their desire for a mate and female fireflies will signal back. Though they are also used in deadly ways with a female luring a different species of a male firefly then gobbles it up. Yep you read that right eats it!
Some experts believe that it's also used to deter creatures off by reminding them of their bitter taste.

Thanks heaps for reading, hope you enjoyed and we can't wait to see you in the next one!

If you've got a suggestion for a blog post don't hesitate to contact us.

---