How a firefly lights up: Researchers reveal the secrets of the incredible 'lantern' structure the insects use to glow

Researchers have uncovered exactly how the firefly lights up - and the stunning structure they use to do it. This 'bioluminescence' is an intriguing phenomenon that has many potential applications, from drug testing and monitoring water contamination, and even lighting up streets using glow-in-dark trees and plants. Using cutting- edge imaging techniques, scientists from Switzerland and Taiwan have finally unraveled the secrets of the firefly's intricate light-producing system for the first time.Fireflies used rapid light flashes to communicate. This 'bioluminescence' is an intriguing phenomenon that has many potential applications, from drug testing and monitoring water contamination, and even lighting up streets using glow-in-dark trees and plants. Fireflies emit light when a compound called luciferin breaks down. Read more...