Glowworm

bioluminescence · beetles · insects · darkness

Living light shows. Glowworms create light through a special chemical reaction inside their bodies called bioluminescence. Different types of glowworms use this glow for different reasons, like finding mates or attracting prey.

Many kinds of glowworms. Glowworms aren't just one type of insect. They include beetle larvae, some adult beetles, and even certain fungus gnats that have learned to make light in completely different ways.

Night hunters and communicators. Some glowworms use their glow to hunt in darkness, while others use it to send special signals to find partners. Each species has its own way of using light to survive and thrive.

Not actually worms. Despite their name, most glowworms aren't true worms at all. Many are the young forms of beetles before they transform into their adult shape.

Found worldwide. Different glowworm species live on continents all around the world, from Europe to Australia to North America, each adapted to their own special habitats.