Bioluminescence: Light from Living Organisms

What is Bioluminescence?

Bioluminescence is the ability of living organisms to emit light. This light can be produced by a variety of chemical reactions, and it can vary in color from blue to green to red. Bioluminescence is found in a wide range of organisms, including bacteria, fungi, algae, fish, and insects.

Fireflies

One of the most familiar examples of bioluminescence is the firefly. Fireflies produce light by combining a chemical called luciferin with oxygen in the presence of an enzyme called luciferase. This reaction produces light that is used by fireflies to attract mates and find food.