FAUST, L.; Knoxville, TN: Fireflies as a Catalyst for Science Education

Fireflies can be the focus of an effective program to teach the public about insect behavior and bioluminescence. Photinus carolinus, a synchronously flashing species of firefly, is found at high elevations in the southern Appalachian mountains. In Great Smoky Mountains National Park, they produce a spectacular flash display each June known locally as “the Light Show.” A workshop for adults organized around the “Light Show” has been used to teach about natural history and physiology, conservation biology, and issues of public policy. The workshop compresses instruction, slides, demonstrations, audience participation, experiments, and videos into one 3-hour classroom session. This prepares participants for an evening field trip. The four hour field trip starts with a walk at dusk through Elkmont. Here, the natural history, ecology, and political history of the area are presented. This is followed by a guided walk to an area for viewing the Ph. carolinus synchronous flash behavior as well as several additional species of Photinus, Photuris, and Phausis. Sometimes, on-going scientific experiments are viewed as well. Participants are also exposed to other bioluminescent phenomena such as foxfire, Phengodes, glow in the dark mushrooms and bioluminescent fungus gnat larvae. Experience has shown that, though limited to a single day, this workshop provides interested individuals with the basic tools to observe the nocturnal environment and appreciate fireflies, insects, behavior, ecology, and conservation biology. Additionally, this workshop has also served as a template for a modified curriculum that focuses on fireflies, synchrony, and natural history. These programs can be presented throughout the year.