Lucidota atra, the black firefly or woodland lucy,[1] is a diurnal species of firefly — a member of the Lampyridae family of beetles (order Coleoptera).[2][3][4]
Lucidota atra are found in eastern North America, excluding Mexico. Their range extends west to Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Texas.[1]
Adult body length is up to 12 millimetres (0.47 in).[5] This firefly has segmented, conspicuous, black antennae that are serrate.[6]: 84 The pronotum extends over the head and is usually red and yellow with a medial black stripe or patch,[5] but may be dark overall in some individuals.[7] The compound eyes are smaller than those of nocturnal species like Photinus pyralis.[8] The elytra are black or brown-black[5] and have granulated texture.[7] The light organ is greatly reduced and difficult to discern in the adult.[6]: 30
This is a firefly that flies actively in daylight. Its flightless larvae live in moist environments, especially decaying wood, and prey on invertebrates with soft bodies, such as snails and slugs.[1] In eastern Canada, larvae eclose beginning in late May, and adult numbers peak in late June to mid-July.[9] Male Lucidota atra can identify female mating partners by sensing the female's pheromones with their antennae.[10] Lucidota atra express a characteristic set of odorant receptor genes in their antennae.[8]
Lucidota atra, the black firefly or woodland lucy, is a diurnal species of firefly — a member of the Lampyridae family of beetles (order Coleoptera).
