Grave of the Fireflies

𝘃𝗶𝗮 𝗝𝗮𝘀𝗵𝗹𝗲𝘆 𝗞𝗰𝘇𝗶𝗮𝗵 𝗥𝗼𝘀𝗮𝗹𝗲𝘀, 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗿𝗼𝗼𝗺 𝗣𝗛

Light that shines on the darkest night, a natural light that brightens our sight, helping us see nature’s might. The last luminous insect, will we ever see it again?

Fireflies, also called lightning bugs, are known for their bioluminescent glow, this is because of their lower abdomen that produces light due to a chemical reaction. They are beetles, contrary to their name.

Fireflies often symbolize hope, love, or the transient nature of life. However, they are at risk of extinction.

According to scientists, at least 20% of firefly species are threatened with extinction. Additionally, they said that there is a possibility we might be the last generation to see firefly’s bright light that leaves us in genuine admiration. This does not mean that the possible disappearance of fireflies is an unimportant scenario, but rather a sign and warning that our ecosystem is unhealthy and we’re headed for torpedo.

Besides their light that guides us, fireflies also play a crucial role in ecological factors. What kills them, stated by Hashem Al-Ghaili (a Yemeni molecular biologist, science communicator, and director), are: light pollution, habitat loss, pesticides, water pollution, invasive species, and over-collection. Yet, habitat loss, light pollution, and pesticide use are the most serious threats, according to a 2020 study published in BioScience.

The Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation wrote, “There is an urgent need to study firefly populations more closely to fully understand their plight and ensure conservation efforts are effective.” We might not be the last generation to witness fireflies if we act for conservation.

The possibility of fireflies’ extinction can be outweighed by our act for conservation. We can protect fireflies by avoiding the use of pesticides or chemical fertilizers, turning off outdoor lights at night, and providing habitat for them. That’s the less we can do so fireflies can get through.

Fireflies can be saved if we protect them and heed to acts of conservation, though doing this yourself is hard. That’s why with unity, fireflies can be saved. The firefly that gleams brightly, that brings glow in our childhood, must be protected so the future generations will be able to see the light that brings a smile in every spectator’s face.

This very occurrence is a sign of distress and an ecological crisis. We mustn't allow fireflies to become mere memories for future generations, as they would miss the natural light that guides us even through our darkest nights. Our backyards must not become graveyards for fireflies.