LUMINOUS FIREFLY

Evening Star, Issue 22975, 4 June 1938, Page 30

LUMINOUS FIREFLY

USED AS LAMPS .■ 7 . It has long been a matter for conjecture as to the reason for the luminous properties of the firefly. To-day we know that this phenomenon originates from a 'fat-containing' tissue which is thickly by. air-conduct-ing tracheae. The ■ illumination sets up a lively decomposition of oxygenous substances without any evident development of heat. In short, the “ fire ’ of the firefly is cold. In many , parts of Central America; where these “ Cucujos,” as the" are called; .abound, they are collected inro small haiid-baskets and-used as living lamps. They are also ; an exceedingly popular form of adornment among the womenfolk, who wear these luminous “jewels” in tiny bags, made of'fine tulle made up into necklaces and, hair ornaments. When the luminous properties of the insects diminish it is only required to immense them in warm water to r*kindle the “fire.” These living.lamps need only to be fed bn sugarcane and will keep for quite a long time. They cost only a few cents.