Common Eastern Firefly (Photinus pyralis) - Revision history

Gjmaltbi: /* Conservation Status */

2025-04-01T02:29:37Z

Conservation Status

← Older revision		Revision as of 22:29, 31 March 2025
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	==Conservation Status==		==Conservation Status==
	According to IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, as of 2020, the ''Photinus pyralis'' species is listed as "Least Concern"[10]. However, the overall abundance of firefly species are seen to be dwindling due to a variety of threats. Factors such as habitat loss, light pollution, and the use of pesticides are contributing to the decrease in numbers of fireflies [11].		According to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, as of 2020, the ''Photinus pyralis'' species is listed as "Least Concern"[10]. However, the overall abundance of firefly species are seen to be dwindling due to a variety of threats. Factors such as habitat loss, light pollution, and the use of pesticides are contributing to the decrease in numbers of fireflies [11].

	==References==		==References==

Gjmaltbi: /* Conservation Status */

2025-04-01T02:28:53Z

Conservation Status

← Older revision		Revision as of 22:28, 31 March 2025
Line 37:		Line 37:

	==Conservation Status==		==Conservation Status==
	According to IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, as of 2020, the ''Photinus pyralis'' species is listed as "Least Concern"[10]. However, the overall abundance of firefly species are seen to be dwindling due to a variety of threats. Factors such as habitat loss, light pollution, and the use of pesticides are contributing to the decrease in numbers fireflies [11].		According to IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, as of 2020, the ''Photinus pyralis'' species is listed as "Least Concern"[10]. However, the overall abundance of firefly species are seen to be dwindling due to a variety of threats. Factors such as habitat loss, light pollution, and the use of pesticides are contributing to the decrease in numbers of fireflies [11].

	==References==		==References==

Gjmaltbi: /* Ecosystem Importance */

2025-04-01T02:28:22Z

Ecosystem Importance

← Older revision		Revision as of 22:28, 31 March 2025
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	==Ecosystem Importance==		==Ecosystem Importance==
	The Common Eastern Firefly acts as a predator species, and affects species that try to consume it, therefore contributing to food web stability [9]. Larvae and adult fireflies can be found eating insects, snails, and earthworms [1]. While not many species feed off of the Common Eastern Firefly due to their toxicity, invertebrate predators such as spiders are found to be least ~~affect~~ by the toxins [9].		The Common Eastern Firefly acts as a predator species, and affects species that try to consume it, therefore contributing to food web stability [9]. Larvae and adult fireflies can be found eating insects, snails, and earthworms [1]. While not many species feed off of the Common Eastern Firefly due to their toxicity, invertebrate predators such as spiders are found to be least affected by the toxins [9].

	==Conservation Status==		==Conservation Status==

Almonaco at 21:53, 30 March 2025

2025-03-30T21:53:04Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:53, 30 March 2025
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	''Photinus pyralis'', also commonly referred to as the Common Eastern Firefly, Big Dipper Firefly, or Lightning Bug ~~are~~ a species of flying ~~beetles~~. The Common Eastern Firefly is the most common firefly species in North America [1]. These beetles are known for the show they put on in late spring and early summer months by emitting a bioluminescence that is often used to attract mates [1].		''Photinus pyralis'', also commonly referred to as the Common Eastern Firefly, Big Dipper Firefly, or Lightning Bug, is a species of flying beetle. The Common Eastern Firefly is the most common firefly species in North America [1]. These beetles are known for the show they put on in late spring and early summer months by emitting a bioluminescence that is often used to attract mates [1].
	[[File:CEFglowing_(1).jpg\|thumb\|300px\|right\|Common Eastern Firefly glowing]]		[[File:CEFglowing_(1).jpg\|thumb\|300px\|right\|Common Eastern Firefly glowing]]
	==Taxonomy==		==Taxonomy==
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	==Description==		==Description==
	The average adult beetle is around 9 to 19 mm (0.4 to 0.7 inches) long [1] consisting of three main sections including the head, thorax and abdomen. The shield like plate covering the ~~beetles~~ head has a black dot in the center ~~surrounded by~~ red and yellow [2]. The wing covers are black ~~and edged~~ in yellow and ~~are~~ often leathery in texture [1]. Underneath ~~the~~ wing covers is pairs of wings and an abdomen that is black in color ~~with respect to~~ the last segment ~~being~~ yellow. The last segment is the bioluminescent organ found to "glow". The beetles are have a hard exoskeleton with 6 jointed legs, two ~~antennas~~, and compound eyes located on either side of the head [3] all of which are blackish brown in color.		The average adult beetle is around 9 to 19 mm (0.4 to 0.7 inches) long, [1] consisting of three main sections including the head, thorax and abdomen. The shield-like plate covering the beetle's head has a black dot in the center with red and yellow outlining [2]. The wing covers are black, outlined in yellow, and often leathery in texture [1]. Underneath these wing covers are pairs of wings and an abdomen that is black in color until the last segment, which is yellow. The last segment is the bioluminescent organ found to "glow". The beetles are have a hard exoskeleton with 6 jointed legs, two antenna, and compound eyes located on either side of the head, [3] all of which are blackish-brown in color.

	==Bioluminescence==		==Bioluminescence==
	The creation of the bioluminescent light is formed ~~with~~ the presence of oxygen, magnesium, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) ~~producing~~ the complex organic compound luciferin. As luciferin oxidizes, a "cold light" is emitted [4]. The term "cold light" refers to majority of ~~the~~ energy ~~produced is~~ emitted in the form of light, with very little released as heat [1]. ~~Each firefly species is~~ found to have different lightning patterns. The male Common Eastern Firefly ~~is found to have~~ a single sustained yellow light while flying upwards forming the letter "J" [5]. ~~The female fireflies~~ are often found on long blades of grass emitting their own flashing signal to attract a male. While the ~~bioluminescent~~ is often used to attract a mate, it may also be used to warn predators of their toxicity [6]. Additionally, ~~the~~ female Common Eastern ~~Firefly~~ may be found luring in males by mimicking mating signals as bait [6].		The creation of the beetle's bioluminescent light is formed by the presence of oxygen, magnesium, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which produce the complex organic compound luciferin. As luciferin oxidizes, a "cold light" is emitted [4]. The term "cold light" refers to the majority of produced energy being emitted in the form of light, with very little released as heat [1]. Male and female Common Eastern Fireflies are found to have different lightning patterns. The male Common Eastern Firefly has a single sustained yellow light while flying upwards, forming the letter "J" [5]. Female Common Eastern Fireflies are often found on long blades of grass emitting their own flashing signal to attract a male. While the bioluminescence is often used to attract a mate, it may also be used to warn predators of their toxicity [6]. Additionally, female Common Eastern Fireflies may be found luring in males by mimicking mating signals as bait [6].

	==Habitat==		==Habitat==
	These beetles are nocturnal and crepuscular ~~indicating~~ they are most active at night and during dawn and dusk. The larvae can be found living on damp ground near streams. The adult beetles are typically found in meadows, wetlands, and edges of woodlands ~~generally~~ found in ~~conditions of~~ wet soils and tall grasses [3].		These beetles are nocturnal and crepuscular (they are most active at night and during dawn and dusk). The larvae can be found living on damp ground near streams. The adult beetles are typically found in meadows, wetlands, and edges of woodlands. Generally, Common Eastern Fireflies are found in areas with wet soils and tall grasses [3].

	==Life Cycle==		==Life Cycle==
	The Common Eastern Firefly goes through ~~the life cycle of metamorphous~~ as the beetle transforms from larvae to adult. In the early stages it can be seen that both the eggs and larvae emit a soft glow to ~~warn~~ off predators [1].		The Common Eastern Firefly goes through metamorphosis as the beetle transforms from larvae to adult. In the early stages, it can be seen that both the eggs and larvae emit a soft glow to ward off predators [1].
	[[File:Fireflyproject-weebly-com_(1).png\|300px\|right\|thumb\|Life Cycle of Fireflies]]		[[File:Fireflyproject-weebly-com_(1).png\|300px\|right\|thumb\|Life Cycle of Fireflies]]

	'''Eggs:''' ~~Are~~ about 1 mm in length and spherical in shape. They are found to hatch 4 weeks after being laid [1].		'''Eggs:''' Eggs are about 1 mm in length and spherical in shape. They are found to hatch 4 weeks after being laid [1].

	'''Larva:''' ~~The larvae~~ live around 1 to 2 years. The larvae may be found eating [[insects]], snails, and earthworms [7].		'''Larva:''' Larvae live around 1 to 2 years. The larvae may be found eating [[insects]], snails, and earthworms [7].

	'''Pupa:''' Pupates are found within damp [[soil]] requiring 9 to 15 days to fully mature which is dependent on soil temperature [8].		'''Pupa:''' Pupates are found within damp [[soil]] requiring 9 to 15 days to fully mature, which is dependent on soil temperature [8].

	'''Adult:''' ~~The adult~~ fireflies live around 30 days with female fireflies laying up to 500 eggs in a season [1].		'''Adult:''' Adult fireflies live around 30 days, with female fireflies laying up to 500 eggs in a season [1].

	==Ecosystem Importance==		==Ecosystem Importance==
	The Common Eastern Firefly acts as ~~both~~ a predator and ~~prey~~ therefore contributing to food web stability [9]. ~~The larva~~ and adult fireflies can be found eating insects, snails, and earthworms [1]. While not many species feed off of the Common Eastern Firefly due to their toxicity, invertebrate predators such as spiders are found to be least affect by the toxins [9].		The Common Eastern Firefly acts as a predator species, and affects species that try to consume it, therefore contributing to food web stability [9]. Larvae and adult fireflies can be found eating insects, snails, and earthworms [1]. While not many species feed off of the Common Eastern Firefly due to their toxicity, invertebrate predators such as spiders are found to be least affect by the toxins [9].

	==Conservation Status==		==Conservation Status==
	According to IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, as of 2020, Photinus pyralis species is listed as ~~least concern~~ [10]. However the overall abundance of ~~fireflies~~ are seen to be dwindling due to a variety of threats. Factors such as habitat loss, light pollution and the use of pesticides are contributing to the decrease in numbers in fireflies [11].		According to IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, as of 2020, the ''Photinus pyralis'' species is listed as "Least Concern"[10]. However, the overall abundance of firefly species are seen to be dwindling due to a variety of threats. Factors such as habitat loss, light pollution, and the use of pesticides are contributing to the decrease in numbers fireflies [11].

	==References==		==References==

Alexsamo: /* Bioluminescence */

2025-03-29T18:55:12Z

Bioluminescence

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:55, 29 March 2025
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	==Bioluminescence==		==Bioluminescence==
	The creation of the bioluminescent light is formed with the presence of oxygen, magnesium, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) producing the complex organic compound luciferin. As luciferin oxidizes, a "cold light" is emitted [4]. The term "cold light" refers to majority of the energy produced is emitted in the form of light, with very little released as heat [1]. Each firefly species is found to have different lightning patterns. The male Common Eastern Firefly is found to have a single sustained yellow light while flying upwards forming the letter "J" [5]. The female fireflies are often found on long blades of grass emitting their own flashing signal to attract a male. While ~~most of~~ the bioluminescent is used to attract a mate, it may also be used to warn predators of their toxicity [6]. Additionally, the female Common Eastern Firefly may be found luring in males by mimicking mating signals as bait [6].		The creation of the bioluminescent light is formed with the presence of oxygen, magnesium, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) producing the complex organic compound luciferin. As luciferin oxidizes, a "cold light" is emitted [4]. The term "cold light" refers to majority of the energy produced is emitted in the form of light, with very little released as heat [1]. Each firefly species is found to have different lightning patterns. The male Common Eastern Firefly is found to have a single sustained yellow light while flying upwards forming the letter "J" [5]. The female fireflies are often found on long blades of grass emitting their own flashing signal to attract a male. While the bioluminescent is often used to attract a mate, it may also be used to warn predators of their toxicity [6]. Additionally, the female Common Eastern Firefly may be found luring in males by mimicking mating signals as bait [6].

	==Habitat==		==Habitat==

Alexsamo: /* References */

2025-03-29T18:53:02Z

References

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:53, 29 March 2025
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	[1] iNaturalist. (n.d.). Photinus pyralis. iNaturalist. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from https://www.inaturalist.org/taxa/129350-Photinus-pyralis		[1] iNaturalist. (n.d.). Photinus pyralis. iNaturalist. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from https://www.inaturalist.org/taxa/129350-Photinus-pyralis

	[2] Missouri Department of Conservation. (n.d.). Fireflies (lightning bugs). Missouri Department of Conservation. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from https://mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/fireflies-lightning-		[2] Missouri Department of Conservation. (n.d.). Fireflies (lightning bugs). Missouri Department of Conservation. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from https://mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/fireflies-lightning-bugs#:~:text=The%20adults%20of%20most%20species,covers%20the%20head%20from%20above
	bugs#:~:text=The%20adults%20of%20most%20species,covers%20the%20head%20from%20above.

	[3] University of Michigan. (n.d.). Photinus pyralis (common eastern firefly). Animal [[Diversity]] Web. Retrieved March 29, 2025, ~~from~~		[3] University of Michigan. (n.d.). Photinus pyralis (common eastern firefly). Animal [[Diversity]] Web. Retrieved March 29, 2025, fromhttps://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Photinus_pyralis/#:~:text=The%20common%20eastern%20firefly%20is,%2C%20thorax%2C%20and%20abdomen
	~~https~~://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Photinus_pyralis/#:~:text=The%20common%20eastern%20firefly%20is,%2C%20thorax%2C%20and%20abdomen

	[4] Branchini, B. (n.d.). Bioluminescence: The science behind the glow. Photobiology. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from http://photobiology.info/Branchini2.html		[4] Branchini, B. (n.d.). Bioluminescence: The science behind the glow. Photobiology. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from http://photobiology.info/Branchini2.html
Line 53:		Line 51:
	[5] National Park Service. (n.d.). Firefly flash patterns. U.S. Department of the Interior. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from https://www.nps.gov/grsm/learn/nature/firefly-flash-patterns.htm		[5] National Park Service. (n.d.). Firefly flash patterns. U.S. Department of the Interior. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from https://www.nps.gov/grsm/learn/nature/firefly-flash-patterns.htm

	[6] Finger Lakes Land Trust. (n.d.). Firefly bioluminescence. Finger Lakes Land Trust. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from https://www.fllt.org/firefly-		[6] Finger Lakes Land Trust. (n.d.). Firefly bioluminescence. Finger Lakes Land Trust. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from https://www.fllt.org/firefly-bioluminescence/#:~:text=The%20mostly%20nocturnal%20firefly%20larvae,bats%20that%20they%20are%20poisonous.
	bioluminescence/#:~:text=The%20mostly%20nocturnal%20firefly%20larvae,bats%20that%20they%20are%20poisonous.

	[7] Neely, B. (n.d.). Firefly larvae and their development. LSU AgCenter. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from		[7] Neely, B. (n.d.). Firefly larvae and their development. LSU AgCenter. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from https://www.lsuagcenter.com/profiles/bneely/articles/page1587050468972#:~:text=Larval%20Photinus%20can%20be%20found,to%20mature%20depending%20on%20temperature.
	https://www.lsuagcenter.com/profiles/bneely/articles/page1587050468972#:~:text=Larval%20Photinus%20can%20be%20found,to%20mature%20depending%20on%20temperature.

	[8] Life on CSG Pond. (n.d.). Common eastern firefly. Life on CSG Pond. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from https://www.lifeoncsgpond.com/common-eastern-		[8] Life on CSG Pond. (n.d.). Common eastern firefly. Life on CSG Pond. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from https://www.lifeoncsgpond.com/common-eastern-firefly#:~:text=At%20dusk%2C%20a%20flying%2C%20flashing,with%20narrow%20yellow%20side%20margins.
	firefly#:~:text=At%20dusk%2C%20a%20flying%2C%20flashing,with%20narrow%20yellow%20side%20margins.

	[9] The Xerces Society. (2019). Firefly conservation and management guidelines. The Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from https://xerces.org/sites/default/files/publications/19-		[9] The Xerces Society. (2019). Firefly conservation and management guidelines. The Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from https://xerces.org/sites/default/files/publications/19-049_01_Firefly%20guidelines_web_1.pdf
	049_01_Firefly%20guidelines_web_1.pdf

	[10] IUCN. (n.d.). Photinus pyralis (common eastern firefly). International Union for Conservation of Nature. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/164046430/166771623#assessment-information		[10] IUCN. (n.d.). Photinus pyralis (common eastern firefly). International Union for Conservation of Nature. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/164046430/166771623#assessment-information

	[11] Miller, R. (2020, July 29). Fireflies, glow worms, and lightning bugs: The decline of a luminous species. Yale E360. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from https://e360.yale.edu/features/fireflies-glow-worms-lightning-bugs-decline		[11] Miller, R. (2020, July 29). Fireflies, glow worms, and lightning bugs: The decline of a luminous species. Yale E360. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from https://e360.yale.edu/features/fireflies-glow-worms-lightning-bugs-decline

Alexsamo: /* References */

2025-03-29T18:50:45Z

References

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:50, 29 March 2025
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	==References==		==References==

	[1] https://www.inaturalist.org/taxa/129350-Photinus-pyralis		[1] iNaturalist. (n.d.). Photinus pyralis. iNaturalist. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from https://www.inaturalist.org/taxa/129350-Photinus-pyralis

	[2] https://mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/fireflies-lightning-bugs#:~:text=The%20adults%20of%20most%20species,covers%20the%20head%20from%20above.		[2] Missouri Department of Conservation. (n.d.). Fireflies (lightning bugs). Missouri Department of Conservation. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from https://mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/fireflies-lightning-
			bugs#:~:text=The%20adults%20of%20most%20species,covers%20the%20head%20from%20above.

	[3] https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Photinus_pyralis/#:~:text=The%20common%20eastern%20firefly%20is,%2C%20thorax%2C%20and%20abdomen).		[3] University of Michigan. (n.d.). Photinus pyralis (common eastern firefly). Animal [[Diversity]] Web. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from
			https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Photinus_pyralis/#:~:text=The%20common%20eastern%20firefly%20is,%2C%20thorax%2C%20and%20abdomen

	[4]http://photobiology.info/Branchini2.html		[4] Branchini, B. (n.d.). Bioluminescence: The science behind the glow. Photobiology. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from http://photobiology.info/Branchini2.html

	[5] https://www.nps.gov/grsm/learn/nature/firefly-flash-patterns.htm		[5] National Park Service. (n.d.). Firefly flash patterns. U.S. Department of the Interior. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from https://www.nps.gov/grsm/learn/nature/firefly-flash-patterns.htm

	[6] https://www.fllt.org/firefly-bioluminescence/#:~:text=The%20mostly%20nocturnal%20firefly%20larvae,bats%20that%20they%20are%20poisonous.		[6] Finger Lakes Land Trust. (n.d.). Firefly bioluminescence. Finger Lakes Land Trust. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from https://www.fllt.org/firefly-
			bioluminescence/#:~:text=The%20mostly%20nocturnal%20firefly%20larvae,bats%20that%20they%20are%20poisonous.

	[7] https://www.lsuagcenter.com/profiles/bneely/articles/page1587050468972#:~:text=Larval%20Photinus%20can%20be%20found,to%20mature%20depending%20on%20temperature.		[7] Neely, B. (n.d.). Firefly larvae and their development. LSU AgCenter. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from
			https://www.lsuagcenter.com/profiles/bneely/articles/page1587050468972#:~:text=Larval%20Photinus%20can%20be%20found,to%20mature%20depending%20on%20temperature.

	[8] https://www.lifeoncsgpond.com/common-eastern-firefly#:~:text=At%20dusk%2C%20a%20flying%2C%20flashing,with%20narrow%20yellow%20side%20margins.		[8] Life on CSG Pond. (n.d.). Common eastern firefly. Life on CSG Pond. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from https://www.lifeoncsgpond.com/common-eastern-
			firefly#:~:text=At%20dusk%2C%20a%20flying%2C%20flashing,with%20narrow%20yellow%20side%20margins.

	[9] https://xerces.org/sites/default/files/publications/19-049_01_Firefly%20guidelines_web_1.pdf		[9] The Xerces Society. (2019). Firefly conservation and management guidelines. The Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from https://xerces.org/sites/default/files/publications/19-
			049_01_Firefly%20guidelines_web_1.pdf

	[10] https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/164046430/166771623#assessment-information		[10] IUCN. (n.d.). Photinus pyralis (common eastern firefly). International Union for Conservation of Nature. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/164046430/166771623#assessment-information

	[11] https://e360.yale.edu/features/fireflies-glow-worms-lightning-bugs-decline		[11] Miller, R. (2020, July 29). Fireflies, glow worms, and lightning bugs: The decline of a luminous species. Yale E360. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from https://e360.yale.edu/features/fireflies-glow-worms-lightning-bugs-decline

Alexsamo at 18:43, 29 March 2025

2025-03-29T18:43:17Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:43, 29 March 2025
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	[[File:Commoneasternfirefly.jpg\|thumb\|300px\|Close up of Common Eastern Firefly with wing covers closed]]		[[File:Commoneasternfirefly.jpg\|thumb\|300px\|left\|Close up of Common Eastern Firefly with wing covers closed]]

	==Description==		==Description==
	The average adult beetle is around 9 to 19 mm (0.4 to 0.7 inches) long [1] consisting of three main sections including the head, thorax and abdomen. The shield like plate covering the beetles head has a black dot in the center surrounded by red and yellow ~~with yellow on the outer most edge~~ [2]. The wing covers are black and edged in yellow. Underneath the wing covers is pairs of wings and an abdomen that is black in color with respect to the last segment ~~which is~~ yellow. The last segment is the bioluminescent organ found to "glow". The beetles are have a hard exoskeleton with 6 jointed legs, two antennas, and compound eyes located on either side of the head [3] all of which are blackish brown in color.		The average adult beetle is around 9 to 19 mm (0.4 to 0.7 inches) long [1] consisting of three main sections including the head, thorax and abdomen. The shield like plate covering the beetles head has a black dot in the center surrounded by red and yellow [2]. The wing covers are black and edged in yellow and are often leathery in texture [1]. Underneath the wing covers is pairs of wings and an abdomen that is black in color with respect to the last segment being yellow. The last segment is the bioluminescent organ found to "glow". The beetles are have a hard exoskeleton with 6 jointed legs, two antennas, and compound eyes located on either side of the head [3] all of which are blackish brown in color.

	==Bioluminescence==		==Bioluminescence==
	The creation of the bioluminescent light is formed with the presence of oxygen, magnesium, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) producing the complex organic compound luciferin. As luciferin oxidizes, a "cold light" is emitted [4]. The term "cold light" refers to majority of the energy produced is in the form of light with very little released as heat [1]. Each firefly species is found to have different lightning patterns. The male Common Eastern Firefly is found to have a single sustained yellow light while flying upwards forming the letter "J" [5]. The female fireflies are often found on long blades of grass emitting their own flashing signal to ~~find~~ a ~~mate~~. While most of the bioluminescent is used to attract a mate, it may also be used to warn predators of their toxicity [6]. ~~On some occasions~~ the female Common Eastern Firefly is found luring in males by mimicking mating signals as bait [6].		The creation of the bioluminescent light is formed with the presence of oxygen, magnesium, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) producing the complex organic compound luciferin. As luciferin oxidizes, a "cold light" is emitted [4]. The term "cold light" refers to majority of the energy produced is emitted in the form of light, with very little released as heat [1]. Each firefly species is found to have different lightning patterns. The male Common Eastern Firefly is found to have a single sustained yellow light while flying upwards forming the letter "J" [5]. The female fireflies are often found on long blades of grass emitting their own flashing signal to attract a male. While most of the bioluminescent is used to attract a mate, it may also be used to warn predators of their toxicity [6]. Additionally, the female Common Eastern Firefly may be found luring in males by mimicking mating signals as bait [6].

	==Habitat==		==Habitat==
	These beetles are nocturnal and crepuscular indicating they are most active at night and during dawn and dusk. The larvae can be found living on damp ground near streams. The adult beetles are typically found in meadows, wetlands, and edges of woodlands ~~typically~~ found in conditions of wet soils and tall grasses [3].		These beetles are nocturnal and crepuscular indicating they are most active at night and during dawn and dusk. The larvae can be found living on damp ground near streams. The adult beetles are typically found in meadows, wetlands, and edges of woodlands generally found in conditions of wet soils and tall grasses [3].

	~~==Ecosystem Importance==~~
	The Common Eastern Firefly acts as both a predator and prey therefore contributing to food web stability [7]. The larva and adult fireflies can be found eating insects, snails, and earthworms [1]. While not many species feed off of the Common Eastern Firefly due to their toxicity, invertebrate predators such as spiders are found to be least affect by the toxins [7].
	~~[[File:Fireflyproject-weebly-com_(1).png\|300px\|thumb\|Life Cycle of Fireflies]]~~

	==Life Cycle==		==Life Cycle==
	The Common Eastern Firefly goes through the life cycle of metamorphous as the beetle transforms from larvae to adult. In the early stages it can be seen that both the eggs and larvae emit a soft glow to warn off predators [1].		The Common Eastern Firefly goes through the life cycle of metamorphous as the beetle transforms from larvae to adult. In the early stages it can be seen that both the eggs and larvae emit a soft glow to warn off predators [1].
			[[File:Fireflyproject-weebly-com_(1).png\|300px\|right\|thumb\|Life Cycle of Fireflies]]

	'''Eggs:''' Are about 1 mm in length and spherical in shape. They are found to hatch 4 weeks after being laid [1].		'''Eggs:''' Are about 1 mm in length and spherical in shape. They are found to hatch 4 weeks after being laid [1].

	'''Larva:''' The larvae live around 1 to 2 years. The larvae may be found eating [[insects]], snails, and earthworms [8].		'''Larva:''' The larvae live around 1 to 2 years. The larvae may be found eating [[insects]], snails, and earthworms [7].

	'''Pupa:''' Pupates are found within damp [[soil]] requiring 9 to 15 days to fully mature which is dependent on soil temperature [9].		'''Pupa:''' Pupates are found within damp [[soil]] requiring 9 to 15 days to fully mature which is dependent on soil temperature [8].

	'''Adult:''' The adult fireflies live around 30 days with female fireflies laying up to 500 eggs in a season [1].		'''Adult:''' The adult fireflies live around 30 days with female fireflies laying up to 500 eggs in a season [1].

			==Ecosystem Importance==
			The Common Eastern Firefly acts as both a predator and prey therefore contributing to food web stability [9]. The larva and adult fireflies can be found eating insects, snails, and earthworms [1]. While not many species feed off of the Common Eastern Firefly due to their toxicity, invertebrate predators such as spiders are found to be least affect by the toxins [9].

			==Conservation Status==
			According to IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, as of 2020, Photinus pyralis species is listed as least concern [10]. However the overall abundance of fireflies are seen to be dwindling due to a variety of threats. Factors such as habitat loss, light pollution and the use of pesticides are contributing to the decrease in numbers in fireflies [11].

	==References==		==References==
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	[6] https://www.fllt.org/firefly-bioluminescence/#:~:text=The%20mostly%20nocturnal%20firefly%20larvae,bats%20that%20they%20are%20poisonous.		[6] https://www.fllt.org/firefly-bioluminescence/#:~:text=The%20mostly%20nocturnal%20firefly%20larvae,bats%20that%20they%20are%20poisonous.

	[7] https://~~xerces~~.~~org~~/~~sites~~/~~default~~/~~files~~/~~publications/19-049_01_Firefly~~%~~20guidelines_web_1~~.~~pdf~~		[7] https://www.lsuagcenter.com/profiles/bneely/articles/page1587050468972#:~:text=Larval%20Photinus%20can%20be%20found,to%20mature%20depending%20on%20temperature.

	[8] https://www.lifeoncsgpond.com/common-eastern-firefly#:~:text=At%20dusk%2C%20a%20flying%2C%20flashing,with%20narrow%20yellow%20side%20margins.		[8] https://www.lifeoncsgpond.com/common-eastern-firefly#:~:text=At%20dusk%2C%20a%20flying%2C%20flashing,with%20narrow%20yellow%20side%20margins.

	[9] https://www.~~lsuagcenter~~.~~com~~/~~profiles~~/~~bneely~~/~~articles/page1587050468972~~#:~~~:text=Larval%20Photinus%20can%20be%20found,to%20mature%20depending%20on%20temperature~~.		[9] https://xerces.org/sites/default/files/publications/19-049_01_Firefly%20guidelines_web_1.pdf

			[10] https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/164046430/166771623#assessment-information

			[11] https://e360.yale.edu/features/fireflies-glow-worms-lightning-bugs-decline

Alexsamo at 17:44, 29 March 2025

2025-03-29T17:44:18Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:44, 29 March 2025
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	''Photinus pyralis'', also commonly referred to as the Common Eastern Firefly, Big Dipper Firefly, or Lightning Bug are a species of flying beetles. The Common Eastern Firefly is the most common firefly species in North America [1]. These beetles are known for the show they put on in late spring and early summer emitting a bioluminescence that is used to attract mates~~, prey, and may be used for defense~~ [1].		''Photinus pyralis'', also commonly referred to as the Common Eastern Firefly, Big Dipper Firefly, or Lightning Bug are a species of flying beetles. The Common Eastern Firefly is the most common firefly species in North America [1]. These beetles are known for the show they put on in late spring and early summer months by emitting a bioluminescence that is often used to attract mates [1].
	[[File:CEFglowing_(1).jpg\|thumb\|300px\|right\|Common Eastern Firefly glowing]]		[[File:CEFglowing_(1).jpg\|thumb\|300px\|right\|Common Eastern Firefly glowing]]
	==Taxonomy==		==Taxonomy==
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	==Description==		==Description==
	The average adult beetle is around 9 to 19 mm (0.4 to 0.7 inches) long [1] consisting of three main sections including the head, thorax and ~~abdomen. The overall body of the beetles transitions from red to black to yellow when analyzing from the head to the lower~~ abdomen. The shield like plate covering the beetles head has a black dot in the center surrounded by red and yellow with yellow on the outer most edge ~~of the cover~~ [2]. The wing covers are a black ~~in color~~ and ~~are~~ edged in yellow. Underneath the wing covers is pairs of wings and an abdomen that is black in color with respect to the last segment which is yellow. The last segment is the bioluminescent organ found to "glow". The beetles are have a hard exoskeleton with 6 jointed legs, two antennas, and compound eyes located on either side of the head [3] all of which are blackish brown in color.		The average adult beetle is around 9 to 19 mm (0.4 to 0.7 inches) long [1] consisting of three main sections including the head, thorax and abdomen. The shield like plate covering the beetles head has a black dot in the center surrounded by red and yellow with yellow on the outer most edge [2]. The wing covers are black and edged in yellow. Underneath the wing covers is pairs of wings and an abdomen that is black in color with respect to the last segment which is yellow. The last segment is the bioluminescent organ found to "glow". The beetles are have a hard exoskeleton with 6 jointed legs, two antennas, and compound eyes located on either side of the head [3] all of which are blackish brown in color.

	==Bioluminescence==		==Bioluminescence==
	~~They create~~ the bioluminescent light with the presence of oxygen, magnesium, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) producing the complex organic compound luciferin. As luciferin oxidizes, a "cold light" is emitted [4]. The term "cold light" refers to majority of the energy produced is in the form of light with very little released as heat [1]. Each firefly species is found to have different lightning patterns. The male Common Eastern Firefly is found to have a single sustained yellow light while flying upwards forming the letter "J" [5]. The female fireflies are often found on long blades of grass emitting their own flashing signal to find a mate. While most of the bioluminescent is used to attract a mate, it may also be used to warn predators of their toxicity [6].		The creation of the bioluminescent light is formed with the presence of oxygen, magnesium, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) producing the complex organic compound luciferin. As luciferin oxidizes, a "cold light" is emitted [4]. The term "cold light" refers to majority of the energy produced is in the form of light with very little released as heat [1]. Each firefly species is found to have different lightning patterns. The male Common Eastern Firefly is found to have a single sustained yellow light while flying upwards forming the letter "J" [5]. The female fireflies are often found on long blades of grass emitting their own flashing signal to find a mate. While most of the bioluminescent is used to attract a mate, it may also be used to warn predators of their toxicity [6]. On some occasions the female Common Eastern Firefly is found luring in males by mimicking mating signals as bait [6].

	==Habitat==		==Habitat==
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	==Ecosystem Importance==		==Ecosystem Importance==
	The Common ~~Easter~~ Firefly acts as both a predator and prey. The larva and adult fireflies can be found eating insects, snails, and earthworms [1]. While not many species ~~eat~~ the Common ~~Easter~~ Firefly, ~~it can be seen that Photinus pyralis species will eat each other. It can~~ be ~~found that females may lure in males~~ by ~~mimicking mating signals as bait~~ [6].		The Common Eastern Firefly acts as both a predator and prey therefore contributing to food web stability [7]. The larva and adult fireflies can be found eating insects, snails, and earthworms [1]. While not many species feed off of the Common Eastern Firefly due to their toxicity, invertebrate predators such as spiders are found to be least affect by the toxins [7].
	[[File:Fireflyproject-weebly-com_(1).png\|300px\|thumb\|Life Cycle of Fireflies]]		[[File:Fireflyproject-weebly-com_(1).png\|300px\|thumb\|Life Cycle of Fireflies]]

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	'''Eggs:''' Are about 1 mm in length and spherical in shape. They are found to hatch 4 weeks after being laid [1].		'''Eggs:''' Are about 1 mm in length and spherical in shape. They are found to hatch 4 weeks after being laid [1].

	'''Larva:''' The larvae live around 1 to 2 years. The larvae may be found eating [[insects]], snails, and earthworms [7].		'''Larva:''' The larvae live around 1 to 2 years. The larvae may be found eating [[insects]], snails, and earthworms [8].

	'''Pupa:''' Pupates are found within damp [[soil]] requiring 9 to 15 days to fully mature which is dependent on soil ~~temperatures~~ [8].		'''Pupa:''' Pupates are found within damp [[soil]] requiring 9 to 15 days to fully mature which is dependent on soil temperature [9].

	'''Adult:''' The adult fireflies live around 30 days with female fireflies laying up to 500 eggs in a season[1].		'''Adult:''' The adult fireflies live around 30 days with female fireflies laying up to 500 eggs in a season [1].

	==References==		==References==
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	[6] https://www.fllt.org/firefly-bioluminescence/#:~:text=The%20mostly%20nocturnal%20firefly%20larvae,bats%20that%20they%20are%20poisonous.		[6] https://www.fllt.org/firefly-bioluminescence/#:~:text=The%20mostly%20nocturnal%20firefly%20larvae,bats%20that%20they%20are%20poisonous.

	[7] https://~~www~~.~~lifeoncsgpond.com~~/~~common-eastern~~-~~firefly#:~:text=At%20dusk%2C%20a%20flying%2C%20flashing,with%20narrow%20yellow%20side~~%~~20margins~~.		[7] https://xerces.org/sites/default/files/publications/19-049_01_Firefly%20guidelines_web_1.pdf

	[8] https://www.lsuagcenter.com/profiles/bneely/articles/page1587050468972#:~:text=Larval%20Photinus%20can%20be%20found,to%20mature%20depending%20on%20temperature.		[8] https://www.lifeoncsgpond.com/common-eastern-firefly#:~:text=At%20dusk%2C%20a%20flying%2C%20flashing,with%20narrow%20yellow%20side%20margins.

			[9] https://www.lsuagcenter.com/profiles/bneely/articles/page1587050468972#:~:text=Larval%20Photinus%20can%20be%20found,to%20mature%20depending%20on%20temperature.

Alexsamo at 15:41, 28 March 2025

2025-03-28T15:41:25Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:41, 28 March 2025
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	''Photinus pyralis'', also commonly referred to as the Common Eastern Firefly, Big Dipper Firefly, or Lightning Bug are a species of flying beetles ~~that are one~~ the most common firefly species in North America [1]. These beetles are known for the show they put on in late spring and early summer.		''Photinus pyralis'', also commonly referred to as the Common Eastern Firefly, Big Dipper Firefly, or Lightning Bug are a species of flying beetles. The Common Eastern Firefly is the most common firefly species in North America [1]. These beetles are known for the show they put on in late spring and early summer emitting a bioluminescence that is used to attract mates, prey, and may be used for defense [1].
	[[File:CEFglowing_(1).jpg\|thumb\|300px\|right\|Common Eastern Firefly glowing]]		[[File:CEFglowing_(1).jpg\|thumb\|300px\|right\|Common Eastern Firefly glowing]]
	==Taxonomy==		==Taxonomy==