Living Lights

What does the word bioluminescence mean?

• Producing light through a chemical reaction

• Eating bioluminescent organisms

• Living in the ocean

• Sleeping during the day

Why are scientists interested in studying bioluminescence?

• To learn about camouflage techniques

• To create more efficient light sources

• To understand ocean currents

• To find new species of animals

How do bobtail squids use bioluminescence for camouflage?

• To confuse prey

• To attract mates

• To blend with the stars of the night sky

• To scare away predators

What is one way fireflies use bioluminescence?

• To camouflage in the ocean

• To attract mates

• To create heat

• To confuse predators

How does a squid use bioluminescence to confuse predators?

• By changing colors

• By swimming very fast

• By hiding in the sand

• By spewing a cloud of bioluminescent chemicals

How does the cookie cutter shark use bioluminescence to lure prey?

• By emitting a loud sound

• By resembling small fish to predators

• By swimming in groups

• By hiding in caves

What is the purpose of the anglerfish's glowing lure?

• To navigate in the dark

• To attract prey

• To scare predators

• To communicate with other fish

What are dinoflagellates and how do they contribute to bioluminescence?

• Plants that grow on the ocean floor

• One-celled creatures that produce visible light near the ocean's surface

• Fish that migrate long distances

• Large predators that hunt in the deep sea

What can disturb dinoflagellates and cause them to glow?

• Cold temperatures in the water

• Bright sunlight during the day

• Loud noises from ships

• Motion of waves, a boat, a porpoise, or a hand

Why do very few land organisms have the ability to glow in the dark?

• They are afraid of light

• They prefer to sleep during the night

• They do not need to camouflage

• It is a common characteristic among deep-sea marine creatures