Firefly courtship signal

The light emitted by fireflies is a communication signal between males and females during the mating season. However, if different types of fireflies only rely on "light" to court mates, they will inevitably get the wrong partner.

Cause confusion. To this end, fireflies develop a complex signaling system. Males first emit rhythmic flashing signals in the dark. Conveys courtship information; female insects that live in the forest then send out a response signal. There is a fixed and tightly structured interval between the response and the call. According to different flash patterns and differences in spacing, male insects can distinguish females of the same type from females of other categories. Once the female responds incorrectly, late or early, the lover will pay a huge price.

Fireflies in Southeast Asia show a gentlemanly demeanor when courting. They are not in a hurry, but stay leisurely in the forest and shine light into the darkness. All males, regardless of population size, emit rhythmic flashing signals simultaneously. The female, on the other hand, pays undivided attention. Look carefully for your favorite “worm.” After rigorous scrutiny, the female will get what she wants.

animal tags： firefly