engleski

Identification of firefly species in Croatia and their morphological characteristics

Fireflies (Coleoptera: Lampyridae) are among the most charismatic of all insects. With more than 2000 species in 100 genera, the worldwide diversity of lampyrids is impressive and includes both diurnal and nocturnal species. Fireflies, like numerous other insects, have experienced a worldwide decline in their distribution and abundance. Currently, 64 species of fireflies are known in continental Europe. In Croatia, seven species have been described and voucher specimens are kept in natural museums in Zagreb, Split and Varaždin. The last revision of fireflies in Croatia was made by Mikšić in 1986, who stated that the common firefly, Lampyris noctiluca (Linnaeus, 1767), L. zenkeri Germar, 1817 and L. lusitanica Motschulsky, 1854 occur in Croatia. L. noctiluca is the most common of the three species and is widespread on the Croatian mainland, while it is rare in coastal areas. After a detailed analysis of the evidence from the Citizen Science Project “Krešo Krijesnica”, the following four species of fireflies were identified in the Republic of Croatia: L. noctiluca, Lampyris germariensis (Jacquelin du Val, 1860), Lamprohiza splendidula (Linnaeus, 1767), Luciola italica (Linnaeus, 1767). Identification was based on the color of the emitting light and the appearance of the luminescent organ. The most important morphological characteristics and identification keys will be presented at the symposium.

lampiridae ; citizen science ; luminescence ; light pattern

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