Breeding and conservation of Luciola cruciata Motschulsky, 1854 (Coleoptera: Lampyridae) larvae in forests near chemical factories

Abstract The number of fireflies in Japan has decreased with the development cities and industries. As a first step toward regeneration an environment for fireflies, we report attempt to breed aquatic firefly larvae. Focusing on operational stability equipment used, use safety evaluation method like that employed petrochemical plants. death larvae is major risk breeding. larval scenario analyzed clarified using fault tree analysis, demonstrating reducing mistakes monitoring water flow temperature conditions contribute most reduction probability death. An experiment simulating supply stoppage estimate permissible time response once rose reported. A breeding system equipped alarm function prompting emergency responses constructed. Fireflies, including mature larvae, are successfully bred effectiveness this demonstrated by comparing it conventional system. superiority study indicated twofold increase yield lower expenses related strategy.