World's Strongest Coral Reefs

The primary objectives of this multidisciplinary investigation were to: 1) conduct a comprehensive taxonomic survey of biofluorescence and bioluminescence in marine organisms, 2) plot the distribution of biofluorescence in fishes in a phylogenetic context, 3) record emission spectra for all biofluorescent marine species and, 4) investigate the evolution and diversification of biofluorescent patterns and emission spectra in five disparate clades of marine fishes (eels, lizardfishes, scorpionfishes, blennies, and flatfishes) in which our preliminary data shows the phenomenon to be taxonomically widespread and fluorescent emission patterns diverse and interspecifically variable.&nbsp;

Our Objectives

Mission Overview

This expedition led to the remarkable discovery of over 180 new species of biofluorescent fish. The scientific team also discovered and filmed the largest aggregation of flashlight fish ever observed, and determined how they use bioluminescence to school.&nbsp;

Creatures Of Light: Biofluorescence