ADVERTISEMENT
A Way to Attract the Female Firefly
Fireflies must find a mate to breed with, and they do so by flashing their lights.
Those who have studied the behavior of fireflies say that they turn their lights on and off to get the attention of other fireflies, sometimes even synchronizing all the lights at once.
This creates an impressive spectacle when all the fireflies are turned on and off simultaneously.
As children, we were captivated by the sight of fireflies, also known as “light bugs,” flashing in unison and illuminating the environment.
We were just as curious to know more about the fascinating source of light they provided us with each year during their mating season.
To satisfy our curiosity, we captured them and observed them closely, but to no avail. Then we placed them in a jar that served as an improvised lamp.
We achieved something we were initially happy about, but when we heard the poem by the Uruguayan composer Osiris Rodríguez Castillos, “Pena del Vidalitero”, our pleasure of the past was transformed into sorrow and remorse.
The poet wondered if his work was received as he had imagined or interpreted in the way he wanted it to be transmitted.
He said, “Other times, in Gurí, I killed fireflies to see if my light was what they hid. Now I have luminous hands to eliminate innocent candor.”
Then, this memory of killing fireflies brought back memories and I looked at my hands again with that same luminosity.
The passage of time, climate change, the application of dangerous chemicals in agriculture and the overexploitation of forests and jungles have meant that today fewer species are seen that were vital for reforestation before.
This is a great loss for both young and old who previously delighted in witnessing the grandiose display of nature through the presence of these critters.
Environmental and naturalist groups are making big calls for people to care for firefly habitats.
This is because, during the larval stage, they can eliminate other insects that damage plants and, later, act as pollinating agents for flowers, plants, and food.
To ensure their survival, it is advised not to cut or prune areas with vegetation or use insecticides, as this could harm both fireflies and other beneficial species.
see more on the next page
ADVERTISEMENT
