What is another term often used to describe fireflies?

Fireflies are often referred to as "lightning bugs," a term that reflects their ability to produce light through bioluminescence. This phenomenon occurs in specialized organs in their abdomens, where chemical reactions involving luciferin and luciferase generate light. The term "lightning bugs" probably stems from the striking appearance of these insects when they are active at dusk or nighttime, contributing to their enchanting display of flickering lights.

While "glow bugs," "flame insects," and "shining beetles" might evoke the idea of luminescence, they are less widely used and can be somewhat misleading. "Glow bugs" can refer to other bioluminescent organisms, not specifically fireflies, and the other terms do not have a scientific basis in relation to fireflies. Thus, "lightning bugs" is the most commonly recognized and accepted term for these fascinating insects.