CANTHARIS, (Encycl.) The cantharis noctiluca, which is frequently found in pastures and under juniper trees, shines by night. In Italy and North America a species of winged cantharides remain all night on the shrubs and branches of trees, emitting light; but on the approach of any enemy instantly fly off, and the whole tree seems on fire. This wonderful light, which has no connection either with the culinary or electric fire, is placed in the segments of the abdomen of the insect while it remains alive.