Scientists have discovered just what it is that makes the tails of New Zealand glow worms light up and now hope to use the knowledge to aid medical research.

The small glow worm larvae that later bloom into a flying insect produce their light using a chemical reaction that is different to all other glowing creatures such as fireflies, the University of Otago study published on Tuesday says.

“What we have discovered is that the chemical, called a luciferin, which makes light in New Zealand glow worms is unique,” joint author Miriam Sharpe said.

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