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Symbiotic Bioluminescence

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Image from the interactive

Topic

  • Cell Biology
  • Cell Communication
  • Microbiology
  • Bacteria
  • Anatomy & Physiology
  • Zoology

Resource Type

  • Interactive Media
  • Click & Learn

Level

High School — AP/IBCollege
Saved By
17 Users
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Description

This tutorial describes the symbiosis between the Hawaiian bobtail squid and bioluminescent bacteria.

The Hawaiian bobtail squid (Euprymna scolopes) has a remarkable relationship with Aliivibrio fischeri (formerly Vibrio fischeri), a species of marine bacteria that can produce light through a controlled chemical reaction. The part of the squid that houses the bacteria, called the light organ, is similar to the eye. In this Click & Learn, students explore the light organ’s structure and function, how bacteria communicate to produce light, and general concepts related to symbiotic relationships.

Estimated Time

One 50-minute class period.

Key Terms

bacteria, camouflage, confocal microscopy, countershading, light detection, marine biology, mutualism, quorum sensing, symbiosis

Terms of Use

Please see the Terms of Use for information on how this resource can be used.

Version History

Date Published 02.28.09

NGSS (2013)

HS-LS1.A, HS-LS2.A, HS-LS4.C

AP Biology (2019)

ENE-3.D, ENE-4.A, ENE-4.B, ENE-4.C, IST-2.D, IST-5.A, SYI-1.G

IB Biology (2016)

4.1, C.1

AP Environmental Science (2020)

Topic(s): 1.1, 1.3
Learning Objectives & Practices: ERT-1.A, ERT-1.C

IB Environmental Systems and Societies (2017)

2.1

Vision and Change (2009)

CC2, CC5

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