Researchers have discovered a new species of killer glow worms in the Peruvian rainforest that uses its luminescence to catch prey.

They believe this glow worm larvae could be a subspecies of other glow worms that use their phosphorescence to attract unfortunate smaller insects into their waiting jaws.

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Many insects just fly right into the jaws of these glow worm's, lured by the light, according to entomologist Aaron Pomerantz who works along with the Tambopata Research Center in Peru.

Apparently, the larvae can control their luminescence like a light switch, turning it on and off at will. This suggests these glow worms have adapted and evolved in the dark rainforest to catch prey.

Pomerantz also says these larvae use luciferin, a chemical that's also present in other firefly species.

The glow worm will erupt from its burrow when its prey is within close proximity. It quickly fastens onto its surprised victim after bursting from the earth.

These creatures are the larval stage of an unknown species of click beetle, named for their clicking action and popping action used to escape predators.

Adult click beetles usually feed on nectar and flowers but the larvae are more predatory and fercious.

The glowing larvae was first spotted by wildlife photographer Jeff Cremet. To identify these mysterious creatures, he posted his photographs online in an "whatsthisbug" forum so wildlife and insect enthusiasts and scientists could help identify this new found bug species.

Pomerantz and his team from the University of Florida contacted Cremet. They arranged an expedition in October to study the glow worms further.

The worms were found in a bed of dirt with their glowing heads sticking out. To the researchers, these glow worms looked ready to ambush prey.

Among 10,000 click beetle species, some 200 are bioluminescent and are able to produce their own natural light. These glowing insects also use this ability to warn predators they contain chemicals so that they won't be eaten.

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