Bioluminescence in the Everglades

Heart on the beach from bioluminescent algae Noctiluca Scintilla

Picture this: you’re coasting along the waters of the Everglades and suddenly you notice tiny neon blue lights gleaming in the boat’s wake like a whole galaxy of stars. The water glows so profoundly it’s as if you’ve awakened it from a deep slumber. It’s almost as if it’s alive. Well, it is. This is called bioluminescence.

While the water isn’t actually alive, the tiny neon lights are. Bioluminescence in the Everglades is the product of light-emitting aquatic microorganisms like algae and fungi. The most common light producing aquatic organisms are known as dinoflagellates, which give off a blue-green hue.

This strange and brilliant phenomenon takes place due to a chemical reaction between luciferin, the light-emitting property found in fireflies, and a light-bearing enzyme called luciferase. Touch tends to stimulate bioluminescent organisms, so a boat’s bottom or a canoe’s oar will trigger a light show.

But it’s so much more than a spectacular sight. Bioluminescent organisms use their light to attract and deflect prey. Some even communicate with one another through those beautiful blue speckles you see at the water’s surface. Why blue? Not only does blue light reach farther distances in water, but it’s also one of the only wavelengths marine organisms can interpret.

And bioluminescence isn’t limited to the water. Land loving plants and animals experience it too. Among these are the firefly, a widely-known bioluminescent insect, and foxfire, a green-glowing fungi that grows on tree trunks.

Though bioluminescence can occur both on land and in water, you’re more likely to catch an Everglades light show by boat. Because this marvel almost never occurs in freshwater, take to the brackish and coastal waters of the Everglades for a chance to experience aquatic bioluminescence.

Everglades visitors claim they’ve witnessed bioluminescence in the Everglades Wilderness Waterway, the 10,000 Islands region and in saltwater mangrove swamps. The phenomenon is only visible in the dark of night, so prepare for a nighttime adventure like none other.

For a guided tour through Everglades waterways, contact Captain Mitch’s Airboat Tours by clicking here or calling 239-695-3377.