Its luminescent larvae are either soil-dwelling or found in tunnels in the outer layers of termite mounds, and are active predators of other insects during summer nights when their regulated glow acts as a lure to their prey.

The adult beetles, though, are phytophagous, feeding on decomposing plant matter and exudates, and are attracted to artificial light.

An intense glow emanates from two round luminescent organs on the prothorax and a broad area on the underside of the first abdominal segment.

-Charles Leonard HogueSome 26 species of Pyrophorus are found from southern Mexico to Argentina and the West Indies.

West Indians also applied a paste made from crushed beetles to their faces and hands to appear ghostly in the dark.