Bioluminescence

Bioluminescence is a term that refers to the ability of a living creature to produce and emit light. The effect is caused by chemical properties and is used in a variety of ways including communication between various species or even as a result of symbiosis.

Living organisms that are well known to perform bioluminescene include fireflies, certain species of fungi, various bacteria, and the Angerfish.

Bioluminescene in some creatures is caused by an enzyme known as luciferase that acts upon a specialized pigment known as luciferin. The interaction of the enzyme upon the compound speeds up the reaction. As a result, with exposure to oxygen, the luciferin pigment is able to emit light as a product.