Fotóforos

Fotóforos are specialized light-producing organs found in many marine organisms. These organs are responsible for bioluminescence, the ability of a living organism to produce light. The light emitted by fotóforos can serve various functions, including communication, camouflage, attracting prey, and defense against predators.

The structure of a fotóforo can vary significantly between different species. Generally, they consist of specialized cells called photocytes, which contain the chemicals necessary for light production, such as luciferin and luciferase. These chemicals react in the presence of oxygen, often catalyzed by an enzyme, to produce light. Some fotóforos also contain reflective layers that can amplify or direct the emitted light, and lenses or filters that can alter its color or intensity.

Fotóforos are widespread in the deep sea, where sunlight does not penetrate. In these environments, bioluminescence is a crucial adaptation for survival. Many fish, cephalopods, and crustaceans utilize fotóforos for a range of purposes. For instance, some fish use them to illuminate their surroundings, locate food, or signal to potential mates. Other organisms employ them as a form of counter-illumination, where the light emitted from their ventral side matches the faint light from above, making them less visible to predators lurking below. Certain species can also flash their fotóforos to startle or confuse attackers, or to attract smaller prey within striking distance. The study of fotóforos contributes to our understanding of marine biology and the evolution of bioluminescence.