Shrinking stars: It has been reported that the glow emanating from fireflies has been “dimming” over the past few years.
According to experts, firefly populations in Malaysia’s mangrove swamps are declining due to habitat destruction, which is partly caused by global warming. They warn that the situation is also a sign that the survival of humans inhabiting the surrounding areas is also under threat. Fireflies are classified under Lampyridae, a family of insects within the winged beetle order Coleoptera. In Malaysia, 60 firefly species have been identified so far, with 10 of them found in mangrove swamps.
“Usually, two to three species of fireflies can be found breeding in a mangrove area, and these insects require suitable water levels and temperatures to ensure the survival of their respective species,” she said. The process of recognising new discoveries takes at least two years and requires research funding and facilities, she added.