Lampyris noctiluca
Lampyris noctiluca
''Lampyris noctiluca'', the common glow-worm of Europe , is the type species of beetle in the genus ''Lampyris'' and the family Lampyridae.
''Lampyris noctiluca'' presents a conspicuous sexual dimorphism. The males are winged, with brown elytra, a clearer pronotum and a large brown spot in the middle, while females are larviforme, wings are missing and they are often twice the size of the males .
These beetles use their bioluminescence to attract mates. The adult females are mostly famed for their glow, although all stages of their life cycle are capable of glowing.
In Britain, this species is fairly common compared to its cousin ''Phosphaenus hemipterus'' – the lesser glow worm – which is very rare.
''Lampyris noctiluca'' presents a conspicuous sexual dimorphism. The males are winged, with brown elytra, a clearer pronotum and a large brown spot in the middle, while females are larviforme, wings are missing and they are often twice the size of the males .
These beetles use their bioluminescence to attract mates. The adult females are mostly famed for their glow, although all stages of their life cycle are capable of glowing.
In Britain, this species is fairly common compared to its cousin ''Phosphaenus hemipterus'' – the lesser glow worm – which is very rare.