Page 84 - The Microworld Miracle
P. 84

The fish can turn its light on and off, and can also shine it in
                  the direction it wishes when hunting. This light is so strong that it
                  can be seen underwater from 30 meters (98.43 feet) away. Indeed,
                  the light from a single lantern fish is sufficient to illuminate a small

                  room. These bacteria give off such an effective light that the organ
                  continues to shine even after the fish has been caught and killed. 49
                       Another bacterium with the same capacity provides light for

                  the pineapple fish (Cleidopus gloriamaris), which takes its name from
                  the armor-like covered scales covering its body. The bacteria find a
                  suitable place for themselves inside the fish's body. In finding food
                  and shelter for themselves that the fish provides, they emit light
                  that helps the fish to hunt at night and find its way. The same sort




















         THE MICROWORLD MIRACLE










                    Bacteria that settle in the body of the pine cone fish not only find
                    shelter for themselves but also nutrients given off by the fish. In re-
                    turn, they provide the fish with light that helps it hunt at night and
                    find its way.
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