Deep in the Smokies, attractions and beauty are plentiful, but it is the time of year when one of the most spectacular shows comes to town. Every year in mid-June, a truly beautiful natural phenomenon occurs; a natural wonder that charms it guests and baffles scientists. And what is this natural wonder? They are fireflies, but they aren’t just any fireflies, they are “bio-luminescent beetles” famous for the synchronous flashing light shows. A rare and intriguing insect, these fireflies are the only species of fireflies that can synchronize their flashing light patterns. There is only one other place in the world besides the Smoky Mountains where this phenomena can be viewed – Southeast Asia.
Fireflies (also called lightning bugs) take from one to two years to mature from larvae, but will live as adults for only about twenty one days. Their light patterns are part of the adulthood mating display. Each species of firefly has characteristic flash pattern that helps its male and female individuals recognize each other. Most species produce a greenish yellow light; one species has a bluish light. The males fly and flash and the usually stationary females respond with a flash. Peak flashing for synchronous fireflies in our area is normally within a two week period in mid-June.
The production of light by living organisms is called bioluminescence. Many species of insects and marine creatures are capable of it. Fireflies combine the chemical luciferin and oxygen with the enzyme luciferase in their lanterns (part of their abdomens) to make light. The chemical reaction is very efficient and produces little or no heat.
No one is sure why the fireflies flash synchronously. Competition between males may be one reason: they all want to be the first to flash. Or perhaps if the males all flash together they have a better chance of being noticed, and the females can make better comparisons. The fireflies do not always flash in unison. They may flash in waves across hillsides, and at other times will flash randomly. Synchrony occurs in short bursts that end with abrupt periods of darkness.
This mating ritual is pure eye candy for any nature enthusiast. This is a stunning natural occurrence and everyone should see it at least once in their lifetime!