Why does ocean water glow at night?

The glowing of ocean water is due to bioluminescent plants and animals. The glow may range from blue to green and is strongest when the water is disturbed.

Some plants and animals produce light using their photospores, which are light producing organs. They emit light through a chemical process that involves a protein called luciferin. Luciferin releases energy photons, which produces a glow.

Animals with this ability may produce light to attract prey or to attract a mate. Some use this glow to distract or confuse predators.

This bioluminescence is not hazardous to the health of ocean creatures and does not pose a threat to human health.