Imagine diving into the deep, dark ocean, surrounded by an ethereal glow. Tiny lights flicker around you, resembling a starry night sky, but underwater. This display is work of bioluminescent creatures that have bioluminescence, living organisms that produce light through chemical reactions within their bodies.

Bioluminescence is more than just a captivating natural phenomenon; it plays a crucial role in the survival and communication of many marine species

Let’s dive into the world of bioluminescent marine life!

Table of contents

– What is bioluminescence?
– Bioluminescent Marine Species
– How Bioluminescence Benefits Humans
– Bioluminescence and Climate Change
– Future research

What is bioluminescence?

Bioluminescence is the production and emission of light by a living organism.

Unlike other form of light, bioluminescence is the result of chemical reaction. It is often prevalent at ocean depth.

The bioluminescent reaction involves two key components: luciferin and luciferase. Luciferin is a light-emitting molecule, while luciferase is catalyst. When luciferin interacts with oxygen in the presence of luciferase, the reaction releases energy in the form of light.

The color of the emitted light can vary depending on the type of luciferin and the environment, with blue and green being the most common colors in marine bioluminescence due to their ability to travel further through water.

Bioluminescence differs significantly from other types of light emission. Fluorescence occurs when a substance absorbs light at one wavelength and re-emits it at another, but it requires an external light source.

Phosphorescence is similar to fluorescence, but the emitted light lasts longer after the initial excitation. In contrast, bioluminescence does not require an external light source and is generated entirely by the organism itself chemically.

Bioluminescent marine species

• Angler fish
• Jellyfish
• Bacteria
• Firefly
• Laternfish
• Sharks
• Fungi
• Decapodiforms
• Bobtail squid

Ecological roles

Bioluminescence plays crucial roles in the survival and interaction of marine organisms:

• Predation: Many species, such as the anglerfish, use it to attract and capture prey. The light acts as a lure in the dark depths of the ocean, drawing smaller organisms close enough to be eaten.
• Communication: Bioluminescent signals are used for mating and other social interactions. Species-specific light patterns help individuals find and recognize each other in the vast, dark ocean.
• Camouflage: Some marine creatures, like certain squids, use it for counter-illumination. By matching the light from above, they can blend in with the lighter water and avoid predators from below.

How Bioluminescence Benefits Humans

• Medical Research: Bioluminescent markers enhance imaging and diagnostic techniques, aiding in disease research and treatment.
• Environmental Monitoring: Used to track pollution levels and study ocean health, providing insights into ecosystem changes.
• Biotechnological Applications: Innovations include sustainable light sources and bioengineered luminescent organisms for various practical uses. For example, bioluminescent probe can be used to detect specific location of the DNA.

Bioluminescence and Climate Change

• Climate Impact: Rising temperatures and ocean acidification can disrupt the light production and behavior of bioluminescent species.
• Indicators: Changes in its patterns may serve as early warning signs for shifts in ocean health and climate conditions.

Future application

• ATP sensing: Using bioluminent chemical to locate & detect specific bacteria
• PH detection: Bioluminescence can be used to detect PH level of chemical. As pH drops, light emitted increases responsively.
• Light source: It can act as renewable light up the city!