Shows
Dive below the ocean’s surface with us and experience firsthand how light is created in one of the most bizarre and mysterious places on Earth. Many animals live in the deep sea and use its darkness to their advantage. Over 80 percent of the species living in the depths are able to create light, and this light is often vital to their survival. By creating and manipulating that light, these animals are able to navigate, find prey, communicate, and thrive in an environment that’s mysterious to us.
Viperfish have bioluminescent organs known as photophores. Photo: Francesco Costa
Dinoflagellate bioluminescence in an ocean wave. Photo: Jed Sundwall
The type of light, or luminescence, produced by animals has a special name: it is known as bioluminescence. Some of the ways that the creatures of the deep use bioluminescence are similar to the ways people use light. For instance, many fish use light to communicate, just like the way lighthouses protect boats along coastlines around the world. Humans even rely on bioluminescence to conduct life-saving research.
This winter we are celebrating luminescence and the incredible world of aquatic light. Between November 22 and January 22, learn about what glows far under the surface of the water. Discover the incredible world of fluorescent and bioluminescent light that exists in the dark depths of the ocean through special exhibits and shows.
Learn more about our Luminescence feature.
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