Phengodidae facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Phengodidae |
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Phengodidae
LeConte, 1861
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Phengodidae is a family of special beetles. They are often called glow-worms because they can make their own light! Both the young beetles (called larvae) and the adult females are glow-worms.
These beetles live only in the New World, which means North and South America. There are about 30 different groups, or genera, of Phengodidae beetles.
What Makes Them Glow?
Both the female beetles and their larvae are bioluminescent. This means they have special body parts that can produce light. This is similar to how fireflies glow, but Phengodidae are a different family of beetles.
The females usually have organs on their bodies that make a green or yellow light. Some of these amazing beetles are called railroad worms. They are extra special because they also have an organ at their front that can produce a red light! Imagine seeing a creature glowing red and green in the dark!
What Do They Eat?
The larvae and the female Phengodidae beetles are predators. This means they hunt and eat other animals. They mostly feed on millipedes. They find their food in the soil and in the litter (like fallen leaves) on the ground.
About the Males
Male Phengodidae beetles look quite different from the females and larvae. They have wings and can fly. Males are often attracted to lights at night. They probably don't live very long and might not eat at all as adults. In some types of Phengodidae, the adult males can also produce light, just like the females and larvae.
Images for kids
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A luminescent larva or female
See also
In Spanish: Phengodidae para niños
