Introduction to Bioluminescence

Bioluminescence is the production and emission of light by living organisms. It's a form of chemiluminescence where chemical energy is converted into light energy, occurring widely among marine organisms.

Marine life such as jellyfish, squid, algae, and fish exhibit bioluminescence. This phenomenon evolved independently over 40 times, suggesting its importance for survival in the dark ocean depths.

Bioluminescence serves various purposes: attracting prey or mates, camouflaging, deterring predators, and communicating. The anglerfish uses a lighted lure to attract victims, while some squid emit light to match the ocean surface, becoming invisible from below.

The light is typically produced by a reaction between the molecule luciferin and oxygen, catalyzed by an enzyme called luciferase. The color of bioluminescence is usually blue-green, the wavelengths that travel farthest in water.

Bioluminescence has inspired technological advancements, including deep-sea exploration tools and medical diagnostics. Bioluminescent genes are also used as markers in genetic engineering to track gene expression and protein localization.

Bioluminescent bacteria can create 'milky seas,' illuminating over 16,000 square kilometers of ocean surface, visible even from space.