Nature is the most magnificent engineer. The best way to define nature is extreme intelligence which can be seen in its different creations. Bioluminescence is one such fascinating natural phenomenon. Bioluminescence is the emission of light by some living organisms which is visible to the naked eyes. It occurs due to a chemical reaction capable of efficiently converting chemical to radiant energy with minimum heat generation and hence it is termed as ‘Cold Light’.
The most commonly known and observed example of bioluminescence is the flickering light signals of the fireflies or the lightning bugs. However, it is also observed in bacteria, fungi, insects and some marine invertebrates. In higher organisms, Bioluminescence appears to be a protective mechanism to protect these organisms from predators. They also serve for species recognition, attracting insects for pollination and as mating signals. Its role in lower organisms is difficult to interpret. The metabolic process generating light involves the combination of oxygen with a light producing substance Luciferin and form oxyluciferin that emits visible light.
Bioluminescence has also been observed by researchers in some glowing mushrooms. Researchers are now using these bioluminescent substances to create and develop artificially glowing organisms.