Discovery of Bioluminescent Plankton in California Highlights Ecosystem Impact
Scientists have discovered a predatory plankton species, Polykrikos kofoidii, off the coast of California. This dinoflagellate is known for its unique bioluminescence, emitting slow, dim flashes of blue-green light. Unlike other bioluminescent species, P. kofoidii distributes its light-producing molecule, luciferin, throughout its cell, rather than in specific organelles. This plankton preys on toxic algae that cause harmful algal blooms, which can devastate marine ecosystems. The research, conducted by scientists from Scripps Oceanography and Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, aims to understand the bioluminescence mechanism and its ecological role. 
