but we should also be aware that fireflies and their relatives
are beneficial insects, in that they help to control pests. Although
the adult stage is very familiar to most people, it's actually
the larval stage which is
most beneficial. The larvae
are active at night, usually on the soil surface or under vegetation,
and so are often overlooked by most people. However, many are
biolumenescent and therefore called glowworms. The larvae feed
on things like snails and slugs, and also soil-dwelling insects
such as cutworms.
Here in the United States firefly larvae are primarily terrestrial, and therefore beneficial as predators of crop and garden pests. In some tropical parts of the world there are also species that have aquatic larvae that prey on aquatic snails. These are thought to be important in helping control some human parasites that use snails as an obligate host in part of their life cycle.
So, next summer when you see fireflies flashing once again, remember that they're not just interesting, but also beneficial natural enemies.
By: Dan Mahr, University of Wisconsin - Madison
Excerpt from Midwest Bilogical Control News, Volume V, Number 10, October 1998
Department of Entomology, University of Wisconsin
Firefly photo from University of Pittsburgh (www.pitt.edu)
This information was developed for conditions in the Northeast. Use in other geographical areas may be inappropriate.
The information in this material is for educational purposes. The recommendations contained are based on the best available knowledge at the time of printing. Any reference to commercial products, trade or brand names is for information only, and no endorsement or approval is intended. The Cooperative Extension system does not guarantee or warrant the standard of any product referenced or imply approval of the product to the exclusion of others which also may be available.All agrochemicals/pesticides listed are registered for suggested uses in accordance with federal and Connecticut state laws and regulations as of the date of printing. If the information does not agree with current labeling, follow the label instructions. The label is the law.Warning! Agrochemicals/pesticides are dangerous. Read and follow all instructions and safety precautions on labels. Carefully handle and store agrochemicals/pesticides in originally labeled containers immediately in a safe manner and place. Contact the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection for current regulations.The user of this information assumes all risks for personal injury or property damage.Issued in furtherance of Cooperative Extension work, Acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Kirklyn M. Kerr, Director, Cooperative Extension System, The University of Connecticut, Storrs. The Connecticut Cooperative Extension System offers its programs to persons regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability and is an equal opportunity employer.