Photinus pyralis, also known by the common names the common eastern firefly or big dipper firefly, and sometimes called a "lightning bug", is a species of flying beetle. An organ on its abdomen is responsible for its light production. It is the most common species of firefly in North America and is typically found east of the Rocky Mountains. Photinus fireflies are often confused with fireflies of the similar-sounding genus, Photuris, which are also found in North America.
From Wikipedia, under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Is it venomous or poisonous?
We have no record of Common Eastern Firefly being toxic, poisonous or venomous. That is not proof that it is safe. Never eat, touch or handle a wild plant, mushroom or animal on the strength of an identification; ask someone qualified.
Easily confused with
- Photinus knulli
- Photinus carolinus
- Pyractomena lucifera
- Photinus cookii
- Photinus marginellus
- Heterophotinus vittatus
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Lampyridae
- Genus
- Photinus
- Species
- Photinus pyralis
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