The duration of artificial light defines sexual signalling in the common glow-worm

Abstract Artificial light at night is increasing globally, interfering with both sensory ecology and temporal rhythms of organisms, from zooplankton to mammals. This interference can change the behaviour affected hence compromise viability their populations. Limiting use artificial may mitigate these negative effects. Accordingly, we investigated whether duration affects sexual signalling in female glow-worms, Lampyris noctiluca , which are flightless attract flying males mate by emitting glow that interfered pollution. The study included three treatments: no (control), 15 min light, 45 light. results show females were more likely cease glowing when exposure was longer. Furthermore, small glow, responded faster than larger females. These findings suggest glow-worms react rapidly anthropogenic changes nocturnal levels, prolonged periods trigger stop signalling. Thus, limiting adverse effects pollution on signalling, highlighting importance such mitigation measures. Significance statement Interest animal has increased recent years. With evidence for its impact accumulating, potential remedies, as exposure, have emerged. To date, however, knowledge effectiveness methods remained very limited. We European common wingless beetles mate, discontinuing glow. Such non-glowing not expected find a making it difficult them reproduce. Hence, our indicates should be limited protect this night-active beetle opportunities effective Because many other species also need darkness, provides valuable information development less disruptive night-time lights.