Anglerfish Bioluminescence: How Deep-Sea Fish Create Their Glow

The glowing lure used to attract their prey is created by specialized bioluminescent bacteria that live inside the anglerfish. These bacteria produce light through a chemical reaction that involves luciferin (a light-emitting molecule), oxygen, and ATP (an energy molecule). The light is emitted at a specific wavelength that is most effective in attracting the anglerfish's preferred prey.