LUMINESCENCE IN NATURE

Some living things are capable of producing their own light, known as bioluminescence. The angler fish lures its prey in by dangling a glowing line, enticing smaller fish to come closer. Other predators of the deep stun their prey by emitting a sudden flash of light, confusing them. The pulsing lights of insects signal they’re ready to mate, while some mushrooms glow to encourage moths to land on them and spread their spores. Like luminol, bioluminescence occurs through a chemical reaction. However, unlike the forensic investigative tool, bioluminescence requires the chemical luciferin.