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The adaptive value of luminescence in Lampyridae
Raphaël De Cock
Keywords: Ecology, Luminescence functions, Benelux Glow-worm Survey
| In Belgium three glow-worm species occur (Lampyris noctiluca, Lamprohiza splendidula and Phosphaenus hemipterus)
which differ in activity pattern (diurnal/nocturnal), glowing apparatus and behaviour.
This offers a great opportunity to make an extensive comparative study.
The aims of my research:
- to investigate the occurence and characteristics of glowing in larvae and adults
(activity patterns, spectrograms, pulse features, environmental influence).
- to test theories on functions of larval and adult luminescence (the function in sexual
communication is considered sufficiently documented): antipredator behaviour, intra- or interspecific communication
(coöperation, competition).
- to study the importance of light signals and pheromones in the reproductive ecology of the diurnal
Phosphaenus hemipterus, which has remained hitherto completely undescribed.
A more extensive version of this research project and photographs are to be found
here.
Have you seen a glow-worm, firefly or other lightning bug?
I have decided to start a glow-worm survey for species on the European continent.
A version of the form is available in English, Dutch and French if you contact me at the e-mail address below.
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Submitted: 26-Jan-99
The contents of this page are the sole responsibility of the person
named below.
| Raphaël
De Cock |
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Academic address:
University of Antwerp (UIA)
Group of Animal Ecology
Universiteitsplein 1
B-2610 Wilrijk, BELGIUM
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phone: 00 32 (0)3/820 22 62
fax: 00 32 (0)3/820 22 71 |
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Personal Address:
Edward Pecherstraat 49
B-2000 Antwerp, BELGIUM
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