European Glow-worm and Firefly Species are in decline - Buglife

A new analysis of the state of Europe’s Glow-worms and Fireflies shows shrinking habitats and populations

Glow-worms and Fireflies belong to the beetle family Lampyridae. There are over 2,200 different species of Lampyridae found around the world including the Common Glow-worm (Lampyris noctiluca)

Habitat loss, light pollution, climate change, and chemical use threaten many firefly and glow-worm populations

Fireflies and glow-worms light up the night, creating awe and wonder across the globe. Producing their own light through bioluminescence to communicate with each other, they can create spectacular shows on every continent, except Antarctica. Around 65 Lampyridae species are found in Europe, with the Common Glow-worm (Lampyris noctiluca) being the most familiar and widespread.

Now, researchers from the IUCN Firefly Specialist Group have assessed the status of ten European species, using the IUCN Red List criteria. Half of these species are threatened with extinction. Two species, Lampyris pallida and Luciola novaki, are Endangered, while three are deemed Vulnerable. Alarmingly, the Common Glow-worm is categorised as Near Threatened, meaning it may also be pushed to extinction in the near future. The remaining species assessed fall under the category of Least Concern, meaning they are not currently at risk of extinction.

Dr. Sara Lewis, IUCN SSC Firefly Specialist Group Co-Chair, Tufts University: “While I feel unimaginably sad that several of our most cherished insects could be facing extinction, it’s hopeful to see others doing well. These assessments contribute to our understanding of how firefly and glow-worm species are doing in Europe and can now allow us to focus conservation efforts to reverse negative trends”