Glow worms in WW1 may seem like an unlikely topic, but these fascinating creatures played a crucial role in the war effort. In this article, we'll explore how glow worms were used during WW1 and why they were so important.
What are Glow Worms?
Glow worms are a type of beetle that emit a bright green light from their bodies. This light is created by a chemical reaction in their bodies and is used to attract mates.
How were Glow Worms Used in WW1?
During WW1, soldiers in the trenches were often plagued by lice and other insects. These pests not only caused discomfort, but they also spread diseases like trench fever and typhus.
To combat this problem, soldiers began using glow worms to attract and capture the insects. They would collect the glow worms and place them in jars around the trenches. The insects would be drawn to the light and become trapped in the jars.
Why were Glow Worms so Important?
The use of glow worms in WW1 was important for several reasons. First, it helped to improve the living conditions of soldiers in the trenches by reducing the number of insects that were present. This, in turn, helped to reduce the spread of diseases.
Second, the use of glow worms was a more environmentally-friendly solution than using pesticides or other chemicals. It was also a more cost-effective solution, as glow worms could be easily collected from the surrounding area.
What Happened to the Glow Worms After WW1?
After WW1, the use of glow worms as a pest control method declined. However, glow worms continue to play an important role in nature as a predator of other insects.
Today, glow worms are a popular attraction for nature enthusiasts. Many people enjoy watching these fascinating creatures light up the night sky.
Conclusion
Glow worms may seem like an unlikely topic for discussion in the context of WW1, but their use as a pest control method played an important role in improving the living conditions of soldiers in the trenches. The use of glow worms was a more environmentally-friendly and cost-effective solution than using pesticides or other chemicals. Today, glow worms continue to play an important role in nature as a predator of other insects.