Firefly sex secrets could prove illuminating to men

Biologists at Tufts University have uncovered the secret to firefly sex: the bestowal of big, impressive presents. In findings that may also prove illuminating to human males, the researchers found that, while female fireflies were initially attracted by males' dazzling flashes, they ultimately preferred to mate with the males who gave them the largest, best gifts, the BBC reports. In the fireflies' case, these gifts are packages of sperm and nourishment for the female called "spermatophore." As for human females, they just might prefer a nice dinner out with a good bottle of wine; a thoughtful, home-cooked meal; or something glinty in a small box.