Bioluminescence in Marine Organisms

The video explores the phenomenon of bioluminescent bays, where the ocean glows at night due to tiny organisms called dinoflagellates. These single-celled protists emit light through a biochemical process involving luciferase and luciferin. Bioluminescence serves as a defense mechanism against predators. While some dinoflagellates are harmless, others produce toxins like saxitoxin, posing risks to marine life and humans. The video also discusses the environmental conditions necessary for bioluminescent bays and the occurrence of red tides, which can be toxic. The video concludes with a call to support SciShow.

What causes the ocean to light up at night in certain places around the world?

• Reflection of streetlights

• Dinoflagellates

• Phosphorescent minerals

• Moonlight

What type of organisms are dinoflagellates?

• Protists

• Fungi

• Bacteria

• Plants

What is the primary function of bioluminescence in dinoflagellates?

• Finding food

• Defense against predators

• Navigation

• Attracting mates

Which enzyme is involved in the bioluminescent reaction of dinoflagellates?

• Amylase

• Lipase

• Luciferase

• Protease

Why do many bioluminescent marine species emit blue light?

• Blue light travels farthest in water

• Blue light is the most visible to humans

• Blue light is the most energy-efficient

• Blue light is the easiest to produce

What is the name of the neurotoxin produced by some bioluminescent dinoflagellates?

• Tetrodotoxin

• Saxitoxin

• Ciguatoxin

• Botulinum toxin

Which of the following is NOT a symptom of saxitoxin poisoning?

• Numbness

• Drowsiness

• Paralysis

• Fever

What conditions are necessary for dinoflagellates to thrive in bioluminescent bays?

• Warmth, salinity, and nutrients

• Cold temperatures and low salinity

• High pressure and darkness

• High salinity and low nutrients

Which natural event can lead to a decrease in bioluminescence in bays?

• Tornadoes

• Volcanic eruptions

• Hurricanes

• Earthquakes

What phenomenon can occur when there is an overgrowth of dinoflagellates?

• Red tides

• Green tides

• Yellow tides

• Blue tides