Photinus macdermotti

Lloyd, 1966

Father Mac's firefly, Mr. Mac

Photinus macdermotti is a medium-sized firefly in the Lampyridae, native to eastern North America. measure approximately 10 mm in length and are distinguished by a pale yellow pronotum with a black rectangular central mark bordered by red or pink. Males produce a characteristic flash pattern of two quick pulses separated by 2 seconds of darkness to attract females. The species is nearly identical in appearance to Photinus consanguineus and Photinus greeni, requiring careful identification.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Photinus macdermotti: /fəʊˈtaɪnəs mækˈdɜːrməti/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Identification

Distinguished from by the specific flash pattern: two quick pulses of approximately 0.25 seconds each, separated by 2 seconds of darkness at 70°F (21.1°C). Morphologically nearly identical to Photinus consanguineus and Photinus greeni, making flash pattern analysis essential for positive identification. Males fly 0.3–1.2 m above ground while flashing, whereas females remain perched on low vegetation.

Appearance

Medium-sized , approximately 10 mm in length. Pronotum pale yellow with a black rectangular central mark bounded by red or pink margins. dark with well-defined light-colored margins. Males possess bioluminescent lanterns on abdominal segments 6 and 7; females have a single lantern.

Habitat

Lower-elevation forests and higher-elevation river valleys and open forests.

Distribution

Eastern United States from Oklahoma westward, Florida southward, and New England northward. Also occurs in Ontario, Canada.

Diet

Larvae prey on snails, worms, and other soft-bodied below the soil surface. feeding habits not documented.

Life Cycle

Complete with four stages: , larva, pupa, and . Larval stage is the longest, spent primarily below ground surface. Larvae are bioluminescent.

Behavior

males fly 0.3–1.2 m above ground and emit a -specific flash pattern of two quick pulses to attract females. Females respond with an answering flash from perches on low vegetation, continuing this dialogue until mating occurs. Courtship communication relies entirely on bioluminescent signaling.

Ecological Role

Larvae function as of soft-bodied soil , potentially providing of pest . serve as prey for Photuris fireflies, which mimic their flash patterns to capture and consume them.

Human Relevance

Subject to declines from light pollution, destruction, and lawn use. Males provide of protein packets to females during mating, contributing to reproductive success.

Similar Taxa

Photinus consanguineusNearly identical morphological appearance; distinguished by flash pattern differences
Photinus greeniNearly identical morphological appearance; distinguished by flash pattern differences
Photuris speciesFemales mimic P. macdermotti flash patterns to lure and prey upon males

More Details

Etymology

The name Photinus derives from the Greek word for shining or bright. The specific epithet macdermotti honors Frank McDermott, a firefly expert from the early 1900s.

Conservation Concerns

Studies indicate that artificial light pollution disrupts normal courtship and reduces mating success in fireflies, potentially leading to declines in illuminated areas.