The Black Firefly has light organs, but prefers using aerial pheromones instead of bioluminescence to communicate presence and position.
Black Fireflies have completely black elytra (wing coverings) while other relatives have some yellow edging on them. The pronotum ('shoulder' area) is round and yellow, extending over the head like a shield. In the center of it is a large black spot with red edging both sides.
Black Firefly males may use their light organ when emerging from the pupal case, but it does not use it as an adult. Instead, chemical pheromones are sent through the air to inform members of the species that they are in the area. Males and females retain reduced light organs so they are fireflies despite staying in the dark. Like all fireflies, Black Fireflies can be found in woodlands, forests, parks, fields, backyards, and in meadows near water. his species prefers areas with moisture and humidity. Look for them in the air, on the ground, and on plants, but don't wait for them to illumine; it's not likely to happen with this species.
Taxonomic Hierarchy
Kingdom:Animalia
Phylum:Arthropoda
Class:Insecta
Order:Coleoptera
Family:Lampyridae
Genus:Lucidota
Species:atra
Identifying Information
Scientific Name: Lucidota atra
Category:
Beetle
Size (Adult; Length): 7mm to 13mm (0.27in to 0.51in)
Note: An insect's reach is not limited by lines drawn on a map and therefore species may appear in areas, regions and/or states beyond those listed above as they are driven by environmental factors (such as climate change), available food supplies and mating patterns. Grayed-out selections indicate that the subject in question has not been reported in that particular territory. U.S. states and Canadian provinces / territories are clickable to their respective bug listings.
Beetle Anatomy
1
Antennae: Beetles have a pair of antennae on the head used as sensors.
2
Head: The head is home to the insect's eyes, antennae, and mandibles (jaws).
3
Thorax: Holds the three pairs of legs as well as vital internal organs.
4
Elytron: One of two wing cases on a Beetle that protects its wings (plural: elytra).
5
Wings: Appendages used for flying and kept under the elytra until needed.
6
Abdomen: Houses organs related to circulation, reproduction, and excretion.
7
Legs: Beetles have three pairs of legs located at the thorax, numbering six legs in all.
Colors: black, yellow, red
