- This article is about the creature in the Northern Air Temple. For the creature in the swamp, see glowfly. For the creature in the Spirit World, see Spirit World firefly.
The firefly is a flying insect that lives in the Northern Air Temple. This creature can be used as a non-flammable light source.[1]
History
Upon arriving at the Northern Air Temple, the mechanist found a room filled with natural gas. As he got closer to the room, the torch he was using as a light source ignited the gas, triggering an explosion. Afterward, the mechanist began using fireflies, a non-flammable light source, in order to see in the dark corridor leading up to the room.
When Team Avatar arrived at the temple, the mechanist showed Sokka the location of the room, using lanterns containing fireflies as a light source. Sokka remarked, however, that they did not provide a great amount of light.[1]
Anatomy
The firefly is characterized by a pair of slender, jointed antennae, forewings, and a narrow prothorax. It has a mechanism of bioluminescence that likely works by emitting a light from the abdomen. The color of this light appears light green or light blue.
Connection
The fireflies seen in the temple most resemble the subfamily of Lampyrinae, luminescent nocturnal fireflies.
Trivia
- The ancient Chinese sometimes captured fireflies for the purpose of lighting. It was also a widespread practice in ancient India. However, these were short-term solutions and the use of other light sources became more prevalent.
References
- ā 1.0 1.1 Ehasz, Elizabeth Welch (writer) & Filoni, Dave (director). (November 4, 2005). "The Northern Air Temple". Avatar: The Last Airbender. Season 1. Episode 17. Nickelodeon.