TL;DR
- Fireflies were canceled from Minecraft 1.19 due to toxicity concerns with frogs
- Bedrock Edition users can install Forgotten Fireflies add-on on iOS, Android, and Windows
- Java Edition players need Minecraft Forge and Illuminations mod for firefly implementation
- Fireflies spawn in swarms at night and can be captured for decorative lanterns
- Always create new worlds after installation and verify mod compatibility
The highly anticipated Minecraft 1.19 Wild Update introduced exciting new features like the Warden and Allays, but notably excluded the promised firefly mobs. Developers made the difficult decision to cancel fireflies after community feedback revealed a critical ecological concern: certain firefly species contain toxins that could harm frogs intended to consume them for froglight production. This cancellation disappointed many players who had eagerly awaited these atmospheric creatures since their Minecraft Live 2021 reveal.
Fireflies Teased at Minecraft Live 2021
Despite this official removal, determined players have discovered reliable methods to reintroduce fireflies through community-developed modifications. These unofficial solutions not only restore the visual ambiance but also introduce unique gameplay elements like craftable firefly lanterns. It’s important to understand that these modifications remain client-side only, meaning they’re visible solely to players who have installed them.
Bedrock Edition players can enhance their worlds using the “Forgotten Fireflies Add-on,” a 2022 release that faithfully recreates the originally planned firefly mobs. This add-on introduces firefly swarms that naturally generate in forest and swamp biomes during nighttime hours, creating beautiful atmospheric effects around water sources and dense vegetation areas.
Official Screenshot
The installation process requires careful attention to platform specifications. This modification exclusively functions on iOS, Android, and Windows devices, with each platform having distinct installation procedures. When downloading from MCpedl, be prepared to navigate through advertisement interstitials to reach the actual download page—this is common with free mod hosting platforms.

After obtaining the .mcaddon file, installation methods vary by device: Windows users can double-click the file, Android requires file explorer navigation, while iOS works best through the notes app sharing functionality. A crucial step many players overlook: you must generate a new world after installation for the fireflies to properly spawn. Existing worlds won’t automatically receive the new mob generation.

Gameplay mechanics include interactive elements where players can capture firefly swarms in glass bottles by targeting the swarm center rather than individual insects. These captured fireflies then enable crafting unique firefly lanterns that provide subtle ambient lighting, perfect for creating mystical garden areas or pathway markers around your builds.
Java Edition enthusiasts have access to the sophisticated Illuminations mod, which incorporates fireflies among various other atmospheric effects. This mod requires Minecraft Forge as a prerequisite, ensuring proper mod loading and compatibility with other popular modifications.

Installation begins by downloading the Illuminations mod JAR file from reputable sources like CurseForge. Once obtained, navigate to your Minecraft directory and place the file in the dedicated mods folder. If this folder doesn’t exist, create it manually within your .minecraft directory. Proper file placement is critical for successful mod activation.


Launch the game using the Minecraft Forge profile from your launcher. The Illuminations mod offers advanced configuration options allowing players to adjust firefly density, spawning conditions, and visual effects. These customizable settings help optimize performance on lower-end systems while maintaining the desired atmospheric enhancement.


Beyond fireflies, this comprehensive mod adds other ambient particles like fairy dust, will-o-wisps, and soul flames, creating richly detailed environments that significantly enhance immersion. The fireflies specifically exhibit realistic flocking behavior and dynamic lighting effects that respond to environmental conditions.
Many players encounter installation challenges that prevent fireflies from appearing correctly. The most frequent issue involves file compatibility—ensuring you’ve downloaded the correct version matching your Minecraft installation. Always verify that mod versions align with your game version to avoid conflicts.

Performance optimization becomes crucial when running multiple modifications simultaneously. If experiencing lag or frame rate drops, consider reducing render distance or adjusting firefly density in mod settings. Bedrock Edition users should ensure experimental features are enabled during world creation, as many add-ons require these toggle settings for proper functionality.

Multiplayer limitations represent another significant consideration. Since these are client-side modifications, other players on servers won’t see your fireflies unless they’ve installed identical mods. For consistent multiplayer experiences, consider coordinating mod installations with server mates or exploring server-side mod options for dedicated servers.

Regular maintenance includes checking for mod updates following Minecraft version changes and creating backups before installing new modifications. These precautions prevent world corruption and ensure continuous enjoyment of your enhanced firefly-filled environments.
Action Checklist
- Verify your Minecraft edition and version compatibility
- Download correct mod/add-on for your platform from trusted sources
- Install prerequisite mod loaders (Forge for Java Edition)
- Place mod files in correct directories and create new world
- Configure mod settings for optimal performance and aesthetics
No reproduction without permission:Tsp Game Club » How to Get Fireflies in Minecraft (June 2022) Complete guide to adding fireflies to Minecraft using mods and add-ons for enhanced world aesthetics
