Reproductive Systems, Transfer and Digestion of Spermatophores in Two Asian Luciolinae Fireflies (Coleoptera: Lampyridae)

Zampaulo R, Rivera SC, Pellegrini TG, da Silveira LFL. Larval and adult morphology of Photuriselliptica Olivier (Coleoptera, Lampyridae) and a Halloweeny case of cave-dwelling firefly larva feeding on bat guano

The predatory firefly Photuriselliptica is common throughout the Atlantic Forest and has been proposed as a biomonitor due to the species' narrow niche and elevational range. However, the species is only known from adults, and a more effective monitoring of its populations hinges on the lack of knowledge on their immature stages. Recent sampling in ferruginous caves and inserted in other lithologies, on sites in the Atlantic Forest and Cerrado, have led to the capture of firefly larvae later reared to adults in the lab. Firefly larvae have been reported in South American caves before; however, they have only been identified to family due to the adult-biased taxonomy of Lampyridae. Here, we provide an updated diagnosis of Photuriselliptica, describe its immature stages for the first time, and update the distribution of the species. The larvae of Photuriselliptica were observed to interact with guano of several bat species, including that of vampire bats. These observations are consistent with the less specialized feeding preferences of photurine larvae, unlike most other firefly taxa, which specialize in gastropods and earthworms. It is yet unclear whether P.elliptica are cave specialists. However, since its occurrence outside caves remains unknown, protecting cave environments must be considered in conservation strategies for this important biomonitor species.

Sperm Competition and Paternity in the Endangered Firefly Pyrocoelia pectoralis (Coleoptera: Lampyridae: Lampyrinae)

The endangered terrestrial firefly Pyrocoelia pectoralis (Olivier) is endemic to China. Populations of P. pectoralis have decreased dramatically due to urbanization and pollution. Breeding and re-introduction to a suitable habitat may save the species from becoming extinct. Because of its polyandrous character, an investigation into the possibility of sperm competition and paternity outcomes from multiple matings was initiated to better understand its reproductive physiology. To achieve these goals, 13 SSR markers were developed. The results of paternity experiments indicate there is a significant difference between P3 and P1 or P2. The female reproductive system has three spermathecae which accept sperm from different matings, and no bursa or spermatophore-digesting organ is developed. Our research established that multiple inseminations with sperm from different males occur, leading to competition between ejaculates. The benefits of such competition include an increasing number of sperm in the ejaculates of competing males and the consequential increase in fertilized eggs (thus, fecundity), and thereby a higher chance of genetic diversity and fitness in the offspring of the firefly P. pectoralis.