Marine Invertebrates May Have Been the First Animals to Exhibit Bioluminescence: Study Challenges Previous Beliefs and Sheds Light on Importance of Communication in Deep-Sea Ecosystems

Scientists at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History have discovered that marine invertebrates may have been the first animals to exhibit bioluminescence, appearing much earlier than previously believed. Recent research conducted by Andrea Quattrini, Danielle DeLeo, and Catherine McFadden has shown that bioluminescence, which has evolved independently at least 94 times in nature, played a significant role in the success of deep-sea corals over millions of years.

The study found that bioluminescence was one of the earliest forms of communication on Earth, particularly in deep-sea environments. Researchers created an evolutionary map of eight-chambered corals and analyzed data from 185 species and fossil dating to conclude that the common ancestor of eight-chambered corals was likely bioluminescent around 540 million years ago.

This discovery challenges previous beliefs about the timeline of bioluminescence and highlights its importance in the natural world. Bioluminescence is involved in a variety of behaviors such as camouflage, courtship, communication, and hunting. Scientists are still unsure why this ability developed in animals in the first place. However, this new study provides new insights into its evolution and significance.

The researchers suggest that bioluminescence may have been instrumental in helping these ancient creatures survive in a world without light by providing a means of communication and attracting prey or mates. This discovery underscores the importance of studying bioluminescence further to understand its role not only in marine ecosystems but also across various species.

Overall, this study highlights how studying past organisms can provide valuable insights into our understanding of life’s evolution on Earth.