Are lightning bugs (fireflies) nocturnal?

Fireflies are nocturnal members of Lampyridae, a family of insects within the beetle order Coleoptera, or winged beetles. Yes, they are officially beetles. But we're OK with the misnomer; “firebeetles” just doesn't have the same ring to it. read more

Fireflies or 'lightning bugs' bring magic to a summer night, but there's much more to learn about the secret lives of these bioluminescent beauties. Fireflies or 'lightning bugs' bring magic to a summer night, but there's much more to learn about the secret lives of these bioluminescent beauties. read more

Fireflies are characterized by their glowing 'butts', which they use for finding a mate, or to deter prey. During the day, these nocturnal fireflies go into hiding. They are either seen on vegetation, on banks of small streams or ponds or even on trees. Generally, vegetation that provide a shadier area is chosen, like tall grass. read more

Fireflies are charismatic (which is a rare quality amongst insects) and are easily spotted by non-experts, providing thus good flagship species to attract public attention; good investigation models for the effects of light on nocturnal wildlife; and finally, due to their sensibility and rapid response to environmental changes, good bioindicators for artificial night lighting. read more