Bioluminescence occurs through a chemical reaction that produces light energy within an organism's body. For a reaction to occur, a species must contain luciferin, a molecule that, when it reacts with oxygen, produces light. ... Many organisms also produce the catalyst luciferase, which helps to speed up the reaction.

How do deep sea creatures glow?

Bioluminescence is when creatures actually emit light, either thanks to chemicals in their body, or to bacteria living on their skin. For the creatures that glow because of chemical reactions within their bodies, the source of their wonderful glow is thanks to two substances called luciferin and luciferase.

How does bioluminescent algae work?

Bioluminescent algae are known for producing a vivid flash of blue-green light whenever their surroundings are disturbed, usually by something as simple as the water around them being in motion. ... Also, the light can attract larger predators to the area, causing the algae's own predators to flee.