Types of luminous worms that glow in the dark

Bioluminescence is one of the most striking and curious phenomena of certain species of insects and their larvae, although there are other living beings that have this capacity as some marine algae. In fact, there are several manifestations of great beauty and important biological interest. Although many people do not like to have worms nearby, bioluminescents offer a show worth watching at least once in a lifetime. Therefore, more and more people are wondering what are the different types of luminous worms that shine in the dark and know where they can be seen. If you are interested in knowing, keep reading this article where we tell you everything about it.

The railway or rail worm

One of the most singular specimens of luminescent worms is the larva of the beetle Phrixothrix phengodidae, which has two shades of light. Throughout its body several greenish lights extend, which has earned it the nickname of railway worm. The head has a reddish-orange patch, which also shines in the dark. The powerful lighting-arsenal of this worm native to South America serves as a deterrent against potential predators. Overwhelmed by the visual attack, the aggressor will eventually pass by instead of undertaking the hunt.

The luminous worm of New Zealand

With this generic name it is popularly known the larva of Arachnocampa luminosa, a species of endemic mosquito of New Zealand, although also present in several Australian regions. The caterpillar of the Arachnocampa emits a bright light to catch the attention of other insects and attract them to some mucous filaments that it has elaborated before. The insects that fall into the trap will be trapped in the sticky threads and will feed the worms. Often, these larvae are grouped by hundreds, which gives rise to spectacles of great lighting power and incomparable beauty.

This is the case of the Waitomo Caves in New Zealand, a place profusely inhabited by the luminous worm. The massive phosphorescent formations of the worms on the roofs of the caves, as in the Glowworm Grotto, constitute one of the main tourist attractions in the region.

The luminous worm of Bermuda

One of the species that most arouses interest in scientific areas due to its biological peculiarities is the Odontosyllis enopla . A fundamental part of the reproductive ritual of this marine annelid is the luminous signals that the females emit as a claim, and later those of the males, attracted by the light.

The surface of the waters of the archipelago of Bermuda then becomes a showy bioluminescence show. This reproductive ritual always takes place a couple of days after the full moon, during the summer months.

The fire worm

Although this colorful marine worm does not have luminescent properties, the resplendent tones of its body have the same object as that of some worms that do shine: frighten the enemy. But the fire worm, scientifically named Hermodice carunculata, has not earned its nickname solely because of its fiery coloration. Unlike other animal species whose intense tonalities are not harmless facades, this caterpillar is armed with sharp and poisonous bristles, in case some predator still dares to eat it. The contact with this hook plate provokes precisely the sensation that evokes its name: fire. Therefore, if one touches your skin you will feel a very strong burning at the same moment.