On research and entomological education, and a different light in the lives of fireflies (Coleoptera: Lampyridae; Pyractomena)

Abstract

Research at institutions of higher education could be restored to at least a shadow of its original role through publication in a manner appropriate for immediate classroom use, with questions that pique and direct the interests anti activities of students. Studies on basic natural history may be good candidates for such publication and an example is drawn from fireflies: Two woodland species show directional orientation in their pupation sites on the trunks of trees; one uses southerly exposure and the other occurs on the north side of smaller trees, and much lower on the trunks. These contrasting positions have different thermal consequences, as demonstrated with a physical model, which possibly have a role in reducing interspecific sexual contact or prey competition.