PHILADELPHIA - Fireflies are a family of beetles known for their ability to produce light. They do this by using particular organs in their abdomens that combine oxygen and a substance called luciferin. This process produces light without releasing any heat. Some fireflies even have the ability to blink their lights. While this is an exciting feature, many species cannot produce light.


Firefly populations are in danger of extinction due to several factors. Habitat destruction, pesticide use, climate change, and light pollution threaten fireflies' survival. You can help the fireflies by keeping your home free of light pollution. This can help them find each other during the breeding season.

Firefly larvae feed on grubs, worms, snails, and slugs. Some species also feed on carrion. Fireflies also have an advantage over bees because they are more likely to be found in damp environments.

Fireflies eat other insects as well. Photuris fireflies, for example, mimic the flash patterns of Photinus fireflies. This allows them to look less appealing to predators. They also acquire toxins from other fireflies and put them in their eggs as a chemical defense.

While adults of fireflies eat little, they still require a steady diet. Most species feed on plant pollen and nectar. However, some species feed on other insects, including spiders and snails.