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SEE A 5 F I REF LY
G L OW I N T H E DA R K Flashes of light decorate the dark night sky . . . I t ’ s a g ro u p o f f i re f l i e s in action! This unique species of beetle produces a rhythmic light sequence, which not only protects it from predators but also helps it find a mate.
The firefly is able to start and end a chemical reaction inside its body, which sets a light organ in its abdomen aglow! This process of lighting up is called “bioluminescence.” But unlike, say, a light bulb, which gives off heat as well as light, a firefly can light up without burning up! All the energy created within a firefly’s body is given off as light, meaning it stays cool as well as safe. Let’s watch fireflies sparkle at dusk . . .
This anthisadvance, uncorrected proof. It’s a warm evening, and is across quiet glade in the forest, all we hear are the chirrups of crickets.
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In the stillness, we spot a tiny flash of light ahead of us above the long grass. PING!
