Fireflies in Southeast Asia: knowledge gaps, entomotourism and conservation
Estuarine fireflies from the genus Pteroptyx congregate in the thousands in estuaries throughout Southeast Asia where they engage one another in nocturnal, pre-mating displays of rhythmic flashing throughout the year. They also contribute to a popular form of wildlife tourism called entomotourism that has drawn thousands to the region annually. Despite our best efforts to conserve and protect them, indications are that both their numbers and habitats have been declining. In this article we undertook the task of reviewing/reassessing the body of scientific work on Pteroptyx spp. in the region to synthesise all that is known on this iconic species and to identify information gaps in their biology and ecology. We then identified practical and/or actionable solutions to protect this iconic species, which included relying on state and federal laws to protect these charismatic species and the need for state and federal authorities to either develop or refine guidelines and policies on tourism development in the country/region. The perspectives detailed here may be useful to other regions where congregating fireflies occur.