Lightning Bug

Local Name

Kunang Kunang

Scientific Name

Abscondita chinensis

Family

Lampyridae

Fireflies are soft-bodied beetles belonging to the family Lampyridae, famous for their ability to produce bioluminescent light from their lower abdomen. This chemical light is primarily used to attract mates and communicate with other individuals. Thriving in warm, humid tropical environments with clean water sources and dense vegetation, fireflies feed on nectar or smaller soft-bodied insects. In Bali, their glowing presence in rice fields and gardens serves as a natural indicator of a healthy, unpolluted ecosystem.

Local Name

Latin Name

English Name

Bali Name

Type

Other Fauna

Cicada

Cicadas are sturdy insects known for their large compound eyes, transparent wings, and the loud, rhythmic buzzing sound produced by male cicadas to attract mates. Spending most of their lives underground as nymphs before emerging to transform into adults, they feed primarily on plant sap. In tropical regions like Bali, their distinctive calls are often associated with seasonal shifts and can be heard echoing throughout lush gardens, forests, and trees during late afternoons.

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Rhinoceros Beetle

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Zebra Dove

The Zebra Dove is a small, brownish-grey bird belonging to the dove family Columbidae, easily recognized by its distinctive black-and-white barred pattern on its neck and sides. Native to Southeast Asia, it feeds mainly on small seeds and grass grains found on the ground. Celebrated in traditional culture for its gentle demeanor and melodious, soothing cooing call, this bird is frequently kept in gardens and homes across Bali as a symbol of tranquility and good fortune.

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Centipede

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Koi

Koi are domesticated ornamental varieties of the Amur carp (Cyprinus rubrofuscus) widely kept in outdoor ponds and water gardens for decorative purposes. Renowned for their striking color variations—including white, red, black, yellow, and orange—koi are active, friendly freshwater fish that symbolize good fortune, strength, and perseverance. They can grow quite large, live for several decades with proper care, and thrive in clean, oxygen-rich freshwater environments.

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Squirrel

Tupai (Plantain Squirrel / Treeshrew) is a small, agile mammal commonly found in trees across Southeast Asia. It features a slender body, sharp claws for climbing, a pointed snout, and a bushy tail. Active mainly during the day (diurnal), its diet consists of fruits, seeds, small insects, and nectar. In Bali, it is locally known as Semal and is frequently spotted in coconut groves, tropical gardens, and lush forest areas.

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