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Symbiotic Bioluminescence

Launch Interactive
Topic
  • Cell Biology
  • Cell Communication
  • Microbiology
  • Bacteria
  • Anatomy & Physiology
  • Zoology
Resource Type
  • Interactive Media
  • Click & Learn
Level
High School — AP/IBCollege
Favorited By
10 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.

Details
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
Curriculum Connections
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 (2013)

II.A

IB Environmental Systems and Societies (2017)

2.1

Vision and Change (2009)

CC2, CC5

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