Firefly

Fireflies are beetles and in many aspects resemble other beetles at all stages of their life-cycle, undergoing complete metamorphosis.

The characteristic light emitted from the backside of fireflies is due to the oxidation of the photogenic substrate luciferin to oxyluciferin, which occurs in the presence of oxygen

Fireflies have very fragile and delicate wings, which is why they have developed a hard, choreaceous carapace that protects them from trauma and predators

Fireflies are predominantly nocturnal insects and exchange bioluminescent courtship signals that are precursors to mating. In doing so, they stage a very impressive light show.