Page 59 - (DK) I Can’t Believe It! 2

STRANGE BUT TRUE! 57

Microscopic marine microbes called phytoplankton
live in the sea. When they are disturbed by oxygen, FAST FACTS
a chemical reaction called bioluminescence (biological
light) takes place—a flashing blue light is produced by A spine on the anglerfish’s
the phytoplankton. This usually happens at sea when head is topped with a The teeth
are sharp
ships shake up oxygen underwater. Vaadhoo is unusual glowing lure. and curved
because bioluminescence occurs on the shore. for stabbing
prey.

Many deep-sea creatures have
evolved to produce their own
bright light in the darkness. The
anglerfish uses a bioluminescent
“lantern” to tempt prey. Dangling
from the fish’s head, this houses
bacteria that use chemicals
produced by the fish to glow.

Each wave releases
a flash of glowing blue
in the many millions of
phytoplankton washed
up on the sand.
GLOW IN THE DARK

The Waitomo Caves in
New Zealand are a haven
for glowworms. This unique
species—Arachnocampa
luminosa—produces a striking
light in the darkness. Boat trips
into the caves take tourists to
visit the glimmering glowworms.

US_056-057_309600_Out_of_the_blue.indd 57 19/12/17 12:56 pm