Animals that Glow in the Dark - Bioluminescence is Not New Technology

Scientists have recently cloned pigs and cats that glow in the dark. But did you know that there are many animals that glow in the dark naturally? The ability for a creature to glow in the dark is known as bioluminescence. Bioluminescence is defined as "the production and emission of light by a living organism as the result of a chemical reaction during which chemical energy is converted to light energy." Here are a few animals that are capable of glowing in the dark.

Firefly

Probably the most commonly known animal that glows in the dark is the firefly. Fireflies, or lightning bugs, are small insects of the beetle family and are capable of being bioluminescent. The firefly uses bioluminescence primarily at night to attract a mate. There are over 2,000 species of fireflies and their bioluminescence ranges from a pale red to yellow and green in color.

Angler Fish

The angler fish resides in the ocean in waters that are too deep for sunlight to penetrate. This unique fish is known for appendages that grow out of its head. The appendages are used as lures to attract prey. The angler fish's appendages are bioluminescent and when they glow, small fish are attracted to the light. When a fish is within reach, the angler fish strikes and gobbles up the smaller fish.

Flashlight Fish

Flashlight fish are small fishes with light organs near their eyes. These light organs act as flashlights for the fish. This fish uses bioluminescence to help it find food in the dark.

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