Unseen Biofluorescent Fish Apparently In Large Numbers
A recent study by the American Museum of Natural History has found that there are over 180 species of fish with biofluorescence. The light emitted by them is not visible to humans but absorbing of light and transforming it into a wide range of colors is common to many species. This is how they communicate and attract a mate.
The scientists were actually exploring a fluorescent coral reef off Little Cayman Island, in the Bahamas, to gather photos for an exhibition. While reviewing images, they stumbled upon a glowing green eel.
After exploring four other parts of the world, they came up with the startling discovery that biofluorescence is more widespread than ever known before. There is now clear evidence of biofluorescence in at least 180 species spread across 16 orders.