Diversity of Lampyridae (firefly) species across Colorado

Abstract

Fireflies, lightning bugs, and glowworms (Coleoptera: Lampyridae) are ecologically and culturally significant, yet their diversity and distribution in Colorado remain poorly understood. This study examined 327 Lampyridae specimens from the C. P. Gillette Museum of Arthropod Diversity at Colorado State University. Specimen data, including taxonomic identification, collection locality, and date, were entered into the global Ecdysis database and mapped using geographic information system (GIS) software with county and watershed boundaries. Six genera (Ellychnia, Photuris, Photinus, Pyractomena, Pyropyga, and Lucidota) were identified, though many specimens could only be resolved to the genus level. Collections were concentrated along the Front Range, while the Western Slope, Eastern Plains, and San Luis Valley were underrepresented. Several genera, including Ellychnia and Pyropyga, likely comprise species complexes requiring further taxonomic and genetic study. Although all eleven major watersheds were represented, specimens were collected from only 36 of Colorado's 64 counties, reflecting a spatial sampling bias. These findings establish a baseline checklist of Lampyridae in Colorado, highlight significant geographic gaps, and underscore the need for targeted survey efforts to support regional conservation and management of firefly populations.