Entomology 101 is a college level introductory on-line course in the study of insects taught by Terry Lynch. The course covers all orders of insects and how to collect, mount and display insects for exhibit. Also included are hands-on field work and experiments. The course will take at least 12 weeks to complete, but may take some individuals longer. The course requires a good understanding of English and includes the reading and writing of reports. It is necessary to have access to a computher and the Internet plus a digital camera with a macro zoom lens feature. For more information and registration please click here to visit our homepage.

You are cordially invited to come study fireflies at Bagobo Woodlands. Scientists who want to come do research into the miracle of life and the wonders of nature are invited to come to Bagobo Woodlands. A research center is being constructed and reservations are being taken now.

This spectacular image of Pteroptyx sp. glowing inside a sphere as if brought back to life from the dead, may be a premonition of the power future firefly research will bring to humanity. This is because the processes by which fireflies are able to create light and control their flash may be closely linked to the processes which bring forth life itself. Collector Garnet A. Abajero. Photo © 2011 by Terry Lynch

We anticipate a long waiting list, so you need to get your name on the list now. A deposit will be required and you must plan to bring any special equipment that you need for your particular research. Once we have your deposit we will begin the process of completing your application. Researcher are advised to cover all their travel and related expenses through grants or other funding; this should include any fees charged for your stay at Bagobo Woodlands which will provide secure accommodations. This is an opportunity to participate in a great adventure to discover the wondrous mysteries of the flora and fauna of Mt. Apo.

Zooming in on Pteroptyx sp. while still in its specimen vial, this photo was taken using a Canon PowerShot A570 with a Southern Percision Instrument sterio zoom microscope at 10X. The tiny Pteroptyx is only some 5 mm to 6 mm long yet produces a bright flash and is known by local Bagobo tribal people as Guinto or the "Gold fliers of the night". Collector Garnet A. Abajero. Photo © 2011 by Terry Lynch

There is much to be learned about fireflies and the miracle of light and life at Bagobo Woodlands. We invite all scientists to plan a trip to Bagobo Woodlands where you may study the flora and fauna in the peaceful shadow of Mt. Apo. New species are waiting to be discovered in this woodland paradise. Herein we have exhibited a few photographs and project promosals to spark your curiosity. But don't just dream, plan a trip to Bagobo Woodlands where you may study and learn about the amazing and largely unknown flora and fauna of Mt. Apo and Mindanao.

Lantern of a tiny 5 mm male Pteroptyx sp. was the first variety of firefly collected at Bagobo Woodlands by Garnet A. Abajero on or about Oct. 8, 2011. Photo by Terry Lynch

A second variety of firefly, Pyrocoelia sp. was collected at Bagobo Woodlands by Garnet A. Abajero on or about Nov. 26, 2011, indicating that there are at least two species of fireflies that investigators may study in the Mt. Apo area. Photo by Terry Lynch.

Pteroptyx sp. preserved in 70% alcohol in small specimen vials. Specimens were collected at Bagobo Woodlands by Garnet A. Abajero on or about Oct. 8, 2011 and are shown here to illustrate the proper way to preserve these tiny fireflies for identification. Photo © 2011 by Terry Lynch.

Zooming in on Pteroptyx sp. which was preserved in 70% alcohol. This photo was taken using a Canon PowerShot A570 with a Southern Percision Instrument sterio zoom microscope at 10X. The tiny Pteroptyx is only some 5 mm to 6 mm long yet produces a bright flash and is known by local Bagobo tribal people as Guinto or the "Gold fliers of the night". Collector Garnet A. Abajero. Photo © 2011 by Terry Lynch

Some simple observations and experiments may be made to learn more about the fireflies which occur at Bagobo Woodlands and around Mt. Apo.

1. Firefly Activity at Bagobo Woodlands Make daily or weekly observations at Bagobo Woodlands to determine the annual occurrence of fireflies. This may involve recording the date, time, temperature, location, number of fireflies seen, flash pattern and other factors. Sightings may be reported and mapped using the Boston Museum of Science Firefly Watch criteria. It is also important that specimens observed be identified by collecting a few specimens and sending them to INSECTA. It is important to determine how many different species of fireflies are active at Bagobo Woodlands. Currently Pteroptyx sp. and Pyrocoelia sp. have been identified at Bagobo Woodlands. For this reason fireflies around the farm and orchards should be observed as well as those active along the nature trail through the gully. Keep a daily or weekly log such that over time one may be able to determine the peak periods of firefly activity. This information will help inform visitors and ecotourists to Bagobo Woodlands as to when they may expect to see fireflies and the times at which the best displays are observed.

2. Map Mt. Apo Area Fireflies Currently it is not know how many different species of fireflies occur around the greater Mt. Apo area, either in the National Park area or near by Wildlife Refuge; nor is it known how abundant fireflies are on Mindanao or even in the Philippines, in general. Those living in the area or visiting are encouraged to more closely observe fireflies. Make logs of firefly activity and collect specimens for record and identification by sending them to INSECTA. Also join the Boston Museum of Science Firefly Watch and report firefly sightings as accurately as possible. This may also be done for other areas in southeast Asia. Information about firefly sightings is very important because as the human population in areas rapidly increases, deforestation is destroying habitats. When fireflies disappear it singles the loss of many other species. It is vital to know where fireflies occur and to make an effort to preserve and protect those areas which have healthy firefly populations. Establishing nature preserves and FIREFLY SAFE ZONES may help boost ecotourism and also serve to protect many species of flora and fauna.
   

   The golden alure of the lantern of a male Pyrocoelia sp., Mt. Apo, Philippines at 20X. The fact that there are at least two species of fireflies at Bagobo Woodlands may mean that they are in competition for territory. This represents opportunity for future research to study the nature of this competition as well as the opportunity to preserve both species of fireflies at the site. Specimen collected at Bagobo Woodlands by Garnet A. Abajero on or about Nov. 1, 2011. Photo by Terry Lynch

3. Firefly Behavior and Advanced Research at Bagobo Woodlands. The fact that there are at least two species of fireflies at Bagobo Woodlands may afford a unique opportunity for investigating firefly behavior and how these two species interact and/or compete for food and territory. Make an electronic device which is able to record the flash patters of fireflies. Determing the flash patterns of both individual and isolated male Pteroptyx sp. and Pyrocoelia sp. Then place two individuals of the same species together and record their flash patters as they come to flash in synchrony. Then place males of Pteroptyx sp. and Pyrocoelia sp. together to determine how they interact. Then determine the flash dialogue betweens males and females of both Pteroptyx sp. and Pyrocoelia sp. Once this is known place males of Pteroptyx sp. and Pyrocoelia sp. together and introduce a female, first of Pteroptyx sp. and then of Pyrocoelia sp. It will be curious to note what happens and if the males of either species are able to interfer with those of their competition. Then make small groups of males of Pteroptyx sp with one male of Pyrocoelia sp. Let the group of similar fireflies (Pteroptyx sp.) establish synchronous display. Then introduce a female first of Pteroptyx sp. and see if Pyrocoelia sp., a larger firefly, can out flash the group of Pteroptyx sp., which are smaller fireflies. Repeat this experiment introducing a female of Pyrocoelia sp. Then try the same experiment but using a group of male Pyrocoelia sp. Through such studies like this it may be possible to gain understanding of how flash behavior serves in competition for territory. Also investigate to determine if the larger male and/or female of Pyrocoelia sp. preys upon the smaller Pteroptyx sp. Is there any aggresive mimicry between these two species?

   It would also be interesting to build small flight chambers and study how the adult males of Pteroptyx sp. congergate and if the introduction of males or females of Pyrocoelia sp. may disrupt small groups of synchronous flashing male displays? Or does the establishment of groups of synchronous flashing male displays serve as a behavior which empowers the smaller Pteroptyx sp. to successifully compete for territory against the larger Pyrocoelia sp.? It may be that the smaller Pteroptyx sp. uses synchronous group flash behavior to establish dominance in this manner over the larger Pyrocoelia sp., that this is why in the gully at Bagobo Woodlands there are some high population densities of fireflies (probably Pteroptyx sp.) that have established themselves and can be seen in greatest numbers during the height of the rainy season in July or August.

   It might also be interesting to rear both Pteroptyx sp. and Pyrocoelia sp. to see how their larvae interact when offered snails, slugs or other small animals. Do the larvae of these respective species compete for food? Is one more aggressive than the other? Firefly larvae play an important role in securing a territory, especially when larvae of different species prey upon the same food source and/or are hostile or aggressive toward one another. One would need to collect various snails, slugs and other small animals to test which are the food source for the respective firefly larvae to gain some knowledge in this respect.

   

   Lantern of the synchronous flashing firefly, Pteroptyx sp., found near Mt. Apo at Bagobo Woodlands. This dwarf firefly is known for its spactacular synchronous flashing displays which awe and delight visitors to Bagobo Woodlands. The male Pteroptyx sp. shown here was collected by Garnet A. Abajero on or about Oct. 8, 2011. Photo © 2011 by Terry Lynch.

4. Identify Deforested Areas and Replant Trees There are many areas which have been deforested and not replanted with trees endemic to the area. It would be interesting to determine the effect of replanting trees upon rejuvenating firefly populations. The idea would be to use Bagobo Woodlands as a base-line. Once a annual log of firefly activity at Bagobo Woodlands is made, then observe for firefly activity in areas around Mt. Apo which have been impacted by over-logging or other human activity. Map forested vs. deforested areas by consulting satellite images and visiting areas to note flora and fauna which occur, including fireflies. Then replant trees endemic to the area, such as a natural variety of pine tree. Then over time observe to see how the regrowth of forest effects firefly populations which is an indicator of a health environment. This would be a long-term study which might best be done as a cooperative effort with a university and the support and sponsorship of those companies interested in management of wildlife and the forest, as through such management greatest benefit may be achieved in the long term by being able to sustain natural resources.

5. Rearing Fireflies Rearing fireflies is a challenging and rewarding experience. This would involve collecting fertile females of known species and allowing them to lay eggs; then feeding the tiny larvae which emerge their host food (snails) until they grow and pupate. The adults which then emerge could be mated to rear even more fireflies. Over time one might be able to establish a healthy breeding population of fireflies that could be used in a variety of ways. This might include repopulating areas that were deforested. It might also include creating very impressive enclosed firefly gardens or insectaries where large displays of fireflies may be seen. Also by being able to rear and maintain various species of fireflies one will have stock to use for research and study without impacting populations that occur in the wild.
   

   Although among the most tiny fireflies in the world, Pteroptyx sp. is a magistic firefly when it comes to its synchronous flashing displays. Pteroptyx sp. occurs in abundance at Bagobo Woodlands and is probably the species responsible for large synchronous displays seen during the rainy season. The specimen shown here at 20X is preserved in 70% alcohol and was collected by Garnet A. Abajero on or about Oct. 8, 2011. Photo © 2011 by Terry Lynch.

6. Photographing Fireflies There are many types of photographs of fireflies which present a challenge. This includes making videos of fireflies. Try to photograph fireflies in flight or flashing in synchrony. Make close-up macro photographs of fireflies exhibiting such behavior as mating or laying eggs. Photograph firefly larvae feeding upon snails or other small animals. Can you discover if area fireflies eat earthworms or other small, soft bodies animals other than snails and prove this by making a video of feeding behavior of firefly larvae? Photographs may be of aid in determining the genus-species of the host food of fireflies. Photograph fireflies in their natural habitat flashing upon leaves or other vegetation as well as feeding upon soft bodied animals. Try to make very close-up videos of fireflies flashing, mating, feeding, and laying eggs. Put a firefly upon a clean, clear plate of glass or microscope slide and take close-up photographs or videos as it flashes, that one may see the reflected image of the firefly's lantern. Try to make a video of male and female fireflies flashing in close proximity, and then coming together to mate. Note: Flash photography at night of fireflies in the gully area of Bagobo Woodlands is not permitted. However, you may photograph or make videos of fireflies without a flash; such low-light level photography or videography is a challenge but can produce some very interesting results.
   

   Pteroptyx sp. on leaf at Bagobo Woodlands. This snap shot of a Mt. Apo area firefly appears to be Pteroptyx sp. Examination of specimens will be required to make a more definitive identification. Photo by Joeann Fortch.

   We would love to see any good photographs or videos you are able to make of fireflies and other insects in the Philippines or southeast Asia. Send any good photographs or videos you make or results from any experiments described on this site to Terry Lynch, Naturalist. Credit will be given for any work that is presented, published or used in making an exhibit or display at the Bagobo Woodlands Cultural and Research Center.

   Firefly Resources

   Naturalist, Terry Lynch, has been studying fireflies for many years. You may be able to benefit from consulting these valuable firefly resources:

   • Amazing and spectacular SEM images of fireflies by Terry Lynch. A collaborative effort between Terry Lynch and Dennis Kunkel produced an amazing series of SEM images which reveal the marvelous cuticular structures of a firefly's tarsal claws, tarsal pads, tenent setae, and grooved mandibles and mouthparts.
     

     Compound Eye of the Firefly, Photinus sp. PHOTO Copyright © 2011 by Dennis Kunkel Microscopy, Inc. Specimen collected, preserved, provided, identified, described, and digitally enhanced by Terry Lynch.

     These are without a doubt some of the most beautiful SEM images of fireflies produced to date and give insight into how fireflies are adapted to survive in a competitive environment where it is imperative to be able to cling to smooth surfaces while flashing and signaling for a mate, and at the same time grasp a prey firefly with grappling hook-like tarsal claws and sticky tarsal pads.

   • Firefly Warfare Naturalist and photographer, Terry Lynch, tells how study of a dwarf species of firefly which occurs atop Mt. Cheaha led to developing a new theory he calls "Firefly Warfare." Lynch presents an amazing and spectacular collection of SEM images which express and emphasize morphological features and special adaptations of fireflies and how these equip fireflies for competition. Lynch goes further to explain how fireflies are using their flash patterns to create social networks and compete for territory functioning as a group, tribe or army to gain power and control over territory. Lynch refers to an unpublished report presented to military strategists which has implications for how "Firefly Warfare" revelations may effect future human warfare and be used to achieve victory in the War on Terrorism.

   • Compound Eye of Photinus pyralis SEM image of the compound eye of Photinus firefly. Lynch also shows how to calculate and estimate the number facets in the compound eye of a firefly. This simple method may be applied to estimate the number of facets in the compound eye of any insect.

   • The Head of Photuris SEM image of the head of Photuris firefly. Naturalist and photographer, Terry Lynch, presents the head of a Photuris firefly imaged by Dennis Kunkel Microscopy, Inc. to illustrate special morphological features and adaptations which aid Photuris to compete and survive. Lynch also presents a special sites featuring the Tarsal Claw of Firefly, the Tenent Setae of Firefly and the Head of Photinus.

   • Firefly Keys: How to identify fireflies by Terry Lynch Firefly Keys is an outstanding presentation of pioneering work done by experts which tells you how to identify fireflies and references research and reports of value to amateur and professional entomologist alike. You may also participate in the production of Firefly Keys by collecting and sending firefly specimens from North America and around the world to Dr. Firefly.

   • How to rear fireflies by Terry Lynch Naturalist and photographer, Terry Lynch, shows how to rear firefly larvae, collecting eggs from adults and photographing the young larvae after they emerge from their eggs.

   • The Last Firefly Firefly demes are rapidly being devastated by light pollution, over spraying for mosquitoes by oil-based foggers, and turning forest, fields and meadows into asphalt parking lots and concrete urban jungles.

   • Exploring Nature's Wonders Upon A Summer's Eve: Revelations of truth, beauty, wonder and the firefly wars! This article dispels the classical myth and traditional belief of firefly courtship as a romantic experience when, in fact, it is an extreme competition for territory and food for a firefly's posterity, what the author likes to call, Firefly Warfare! The author also explains the fallacy of relying upon firefly sightings without collecting specimens and other physical evidence and demonstrates how even photographs may be manipulated, that the scientific method must involve a process which may be repeated by other scientists and naturalists to produce consistent results so as to arrive at correct and verifiable conclusions.

   • Blinks and Links Blink and Links is produced by The Firefly Project to help educate and inform the public about fireflies and other bioluminescent animals and plants.

   • Firefly Help Education, Instructions, News and Advice: A Guide to the Study of Fireflies. In addition to Firefly FAQs this site will include news, updates and other wit and wisdom related to fireflies.

   • Firefly Mysteries Revelations related to the egg, embryo, early instar and behavior of Photinus pyralis larvae with respect to gregarious feeding behavior, vivisection of host food via digestive enzymes, interring of earthworms and proof larvae use eyes and lanterns to form aggregates. This report includes photographs of P. pyralis and presents original research detailing rearing techniques and aspects of P. pyralis larvae behavior never before sited in the scientific literature. A challenge for investigators is offered with emphasis on the role firefly larvae may play in research into the genetic key codes which link and differentiate flash pattern to species.

   • Flash Keys in Fireflies by Terry Lynch: Impressions and considerations with reference to the role of nitric oxide (NO) in firefly flash and the implication this has with respect to the timed delay between flashes of species and other related flash behavior. June 29, 2001, 16:40hrs.

   • The Evolution of Synchronous Flash Behavior as a Function of Competition for Mates in Lampyradie: Photinus pyralis. By Terry Lynch. Studies made between 1968 - 1970 illustrate the various flash patterns of P. pyralis and suggest a theory to explain synchronous flash behavior in fireflies.

   • Firefly Notebooks: How to rear fireflies by Terry Lynch Techniques with respect to the collection, observation and rearing of the firefly P. pyralis and Photuris with notes upon the feeding behavior of Photinid and Photuris larvae and the implications these contrasting behaviors have on evolution of the species in fireflies. Presents photomicrographs, drawings, diagrams and methodology with respect to original research related to the rearing of fireflies.

   • Feeding behavior of Photinid larvae Model used to illustrate probably sequence with respect to predation of P. pyralis on earthworms.

   • Firefly Safe Zones: Strategies for Reintroduction, Preservation and Maintenance of Vigorous Firefly Populations

   • Fireflies vs. Humans: More Alien than Alien: Which is the more alien species homo sapiens or P. pyralis?

   • Photinus pyralis Gallery: Microphotographs of embryonic firefly and early instar larvae

   • GEO: Bioluminescent Springtails of Christchurch, New Zealand Original photo micrographs of a little known species of bioluminescent Collembola, Anurida granaria (Nicolet, 1847) are presented to celebrate the beauty and splendor of this Springtail from down under. Site includes guest book, gallery, links and updates.

   • The Angel of Death This creature is Nature's ultimate weapon having killed more people than all the wars throughout history! It is irresponsible for the world community to accept over one million deaths each year due to mosquito transmitted disease and over 300 million people to be infected by malaria, dengue fever and other diseases through mosquito bites. You can help stop the slaughter and balance the equation by visiting and supporting the Angel of Life Foundation.

   • The Urban Jungle: Alien fungi and other wondrous flora and fauna of backyard America

   • Terry's UV Light Trap A design showing how to make a simple UV light trap for the collection of nocturnal insects.

   • The Firefly Gallery Help save the firefly! The proceeds from these charming design items will be used to support firefly studies and research and advocate preservation of the environment and fireflies.

   • Firefly Toxins, Lucibufagins, Bitter Tasting Agents May Serve As Deterrent To Substance Abuse General safety rules with respect to handling arthropods and providing a safe environment for children. By Terry Lynch

   • How to photograph fireflies by Terry Lynch Tips and tricks for the benefit and enjoyment of photographers and amateur naturalists

   • Firefly Flash Simulation: How to make firefly flash simulations for exhibit and display by Terry Lynch

   • How to save the firefly. Naturalist, Terry Lynch, asks everyone to follow these steps to help preserve and protect healthy populations of fireflies that our children's children may see spectacular displays of fireflies.

   • The Adoration of Arthropods Fireflies, insects and other arthropods as pets, live jewelry, objects of adoration and subjects used in commercial advertising and marketing for profit and/or exploitation

   • Byteland You may find more great links to sites and work produced by Terry Lynch on Byteland.

   References

   Pygoluciola satoi, A New Species of the Rare Southeast Asian Firefly Genus Pygoluciola Wittmer (Coleoptera: Lampyridae: Luciolinae) from the Philippines By Lesley A. Ballantyne

   Save The Firefly

   Save The Firefly! Your generous contributions will help these great causes: Establish and Maintain Biodiversity Ecological Research Centers Purchase of Materials, Equipment and Supplies Fund Scientific Expeditions and Field Trips Foster Educational Initiatives, Internships and Scholarships Work to Preserve, Protect and Conserve Green Areas Promote Solar, Wind and Other Green Energy Encourage Guardianship of the Environment, Its Flora and Fauna Click on firefly to donate $5, $10, $25, or more! Thank You! All proceeds will be used by Project Firefly to support this site and help preserve, protect and save fireflies around the world that our children's children may still be able to see magnificent displays of fireflies.

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   Copyright © 2011 by Terry Lynch and Byteland.org. All rights reserved. This website is produced and hosted as a donation to the Ang Tribu Bagobo Woodlands and the Regulo & Lucila Memorial Foundation Center. All original photographs, material, and/or content contributed remains the property of the original authors, photographers, or donors and may not be used or reproduced without their prior written consent.