Fireflies are weak, their bioluminescence is basic. They can’t even control it properly, what makes you think they’ll lead advancements? Their light is just a stupid trick to attract prey or mates, not some groundbreaking technology. It’s pathetic that people would waste time on such insignificant creatures.
Efficient bioluminescence is indeed a remarkable adaptation. Fireflies’ ability to control their glow suggests a level of complexity that rivals other forms of communication. Their ‘engineering’ of light could be seen as a form of bio-mechanical innovation.