10 Facts about Bioluminescence

Saturday, July 4th 2015. | Biology


If you want to know the emission or production of light of a living organism, read Facts about Bioluminescence. Bioluminescence can be seen in the living organisms such as fireflies and Vibrio bacteria. Most of them are found on the invertebrates and vertebrates which live underwater. Let’s find out more interesting facts about bioluminescence below:

Facts about Bioluminescence 1: the chemical reaction

Let’s find out the chemical reaction of Bioluminescence. The reaction occurs because of the enzyme luciferase and light-emitting pigment luciferin. Sometimes, the reaction is also helped by the presence of proteins.

Facts about Bioluminescence 2: the cofactors

The cofactors are needed during the reaction of Bioluminescence in some species. The examples of the cofactors include ATP, magnesium and calcium ions. Get facts about ATP here.

Bioluminescence at Beach

Bioluminescence at Beach

Facts about Bioluminescence 3: the study of Bioluminescence

Even though Bioluminescence has caught the attention of the people, it was appropriately studied by the people in the end of 19th century. Most of them are found on the marine living organism. The bacteria, insects and fungus are the examples of the living room organism which have bioluminescence on land.

Facts about Bioluminescence 4: the functions of Bioluminescence

Bioluminescence is very important for the living organisms. It serves different functions. It can be used as signal to other living organisms within the similar species, give camouflage, attract mates or lure prey.

Bioluminescence Glow

Bioluminescence Glow

Facts about Bioluminescence 5: the research

The scientists make researches about bioluminescence. The biomedical and genetic engineering employ the luciferase based system in the researches.

Facts about Bioluminescence 6: the lighting

Bioluminescence is also studied by the scientists to find out whether it can be used as a decorative lighting.  The people who lived in Europea and Britain used the dried fish skin as the source of light before the introduction of safety lamp.

Bioluminescence Facts

Bioluminescence Facts

Facts about Bioluminescence 7: an alternative

The usage of dried fish skin was a good alternative for candles. Therefore, the people can reduce the risk of having fire.

Facts about Bioluminescence 8: the mine lighting

In the past, the mines were illuminated by using bottles filled with fireflies. It was also safe for illuminating the dark mines.

Bioluminescence Pic

Bioluminescence Pic

Facts about Bioluminescence 9: the early work of bioluminescence

The early work of bioluminescence was conducted by E. Newton Harvey. This American zoologist published The Nature of Animal Light in 1920. It was a monograph.Find out more facts about biology here.

Facts about Bioluminescence 10: Arachnocampa luminosa

Arachnocampa luminosa is a fungus gnat from New Zealand.  It is beautiful for it can produce the bluish green light.  This fungus can be seen living in caves.

Facts about Bioluminescence

Facts about Bioluminescence

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