Electric Blue Insects Discovered Exclusively in Appalachia

Quick Summary

• Orfelia fultoni, a glowworm species found in the Appalachian region, produces some of the bluest bioluminescence known among insects. It’s glow results from a chemical reaction involving luciferin, luciferase, and oxygen.
• Glowworms live in damp moss or decaying logs and produce light to attract flying insects but are frequently enough overlooked due to their small size and need for darkness.
• First identified scientifically by B.B. Fulton in 1941, their populations range from Massachusetts to alabama but remain under-researched.
• Glowworms thrive in Appalachian areas with reduced artificial light pollution. Locations such as Grandfather Mountain (NC), Pickett CCC Memorial State Park (TN), and Dismals Canyon (AL) host annual guided events showcasing them at night due to growing public interest.
• Natural light conditions like those preserved at “Dark Sky” parks help the species flourish alongside stargazing initiatives benefiting insect populations and also human experiences of nature’s spectacle.

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