Office of Research and Sponsored Programs
Research Magazine
CATCHING LIGHTNING (BUGS) IN A JAR
The firefly or lightning bug is neither a fly nor a bug, but actually a beetle. Although all species don’t light up, many fireflies bring joy in Tennessee on warm evenings due to their lanterns, or bioluminescent organs. Along with the ladybug, the firefly (or lightning bug beetle) is the official state insect. At least 30 species appear in Tennessee, including the Common Eastern Firefly (Phontinus pyralis), which kids most often try to catch in the backyard as a spring or summer pastime. Lightning bugs transform places and provide a sense of wonder and awe.
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” Like Lightning, bugs lighting up the night, Our Groundbreaking Project Forge Bright Path Ahead.. ”
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