Arachnocampa luminosa

insect

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Last updated

June 18, 2026

Quick Summary

Arachnocampa luminosa is a species of insect known for its bioluminescent larvae. These larvae are a type of glowworm, distinguished by their continuous or prolonged glow rather than brief flashes.1

The larvae of Arachnocampa produce light from modified excretory organs. This luminescence serves to attract prey, which they then capture using sticky webs. This phenomenon is an example of bioluminescence, the emission of light by a living organism, which results from a chemical reaction that converts chemical energy into light with very little heat produced.12

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bioluminescence
The range and variety of bioluminescent organisms
true flies (order Diptera), notably Arachnocampa luminosa, the larva of which luminesces a greenish blue from a knob at the end of its body. The larvae dangle at the ends of filaments that hang from the ceilings of caves in New Zealand. Luminous beetles include the fireflies and the elaterid…
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true flies (order Diptera), notably Arachnocampa luminosa, the larva of which luminesces a greenish blue from a knob at the end of its body. The larvae dangle at the ends of filaments that hang from the ceilings of caves in New Zealand. Luminous beetles include the fireflies and the elaterid…
Read More