Bioluminescence on Vancouver Island

Bioluminescence is one of nature’s most fascinating phenomena. It is the emission of light by living organisms through a chemical reaction known as chemiluminescence. This mesmerizing glow is typically blue or green due to the shorter wavelengths of these colours, which allow them to travel farther in water.

At the heart of this process is a reaction between luciferin (a light-emitting molecule) and luciferase (an enzyme). This reaction produces light rather than heat, allowing organisms to glow efficiently. The reason blue and green colors dominate is that they travel the farthest through water before being absorbed.

Where Can You See Bioluminescence?

Bioluminescence is most commonly produced by plankton, jellyfish, certain fish, and even some fungi. In Telegraph Cove, we occasionally witness this natural light show, though there are specific hotspots around Vancouver Island where sightings are more frequent. Notable locations include Telegraph Cove Parksville, Desolation Sound, The Sunshine Coast, The Gulf Islands, and other beaches near Tofino. These areas provide the right conditions for plankton blooms, particularly in the summer when warm waters retreat from fjords into the open ocean.

The Glow of the Ocean

Some of the most captivating bioluminescent creatures include:

• Dinoflagellates plankton responsible for most of the glowing water along the coast
• Moon jellyfish and comb jellies
• Brittle stars and lanternfish which use photophores to communicate and camouflage
• Dragonfish which emit rare red light that is almost invisible at deep-sea levels
• Firefly squid and bioluminescent shrimp which release glowing chemicals to escape predators, much like octopuses release ink

When bioluminescence is at its peak, activities such as swimming or boating through glowing waters create stunning visual effects. The disturbance in the water—whether from a paddle, foot, or boat propeller—triggers a dazzling display of glittering blue swirls. Many lucky observers have even witnessed whales or dolphins outlined in shimmering bioluminescence at night, creating an unforgettable spectacle.

Why Do Organisms Glow?

Bioluminescence serves multiple purposes in nature:

• Defense Mechanism: Some creatures use it to deter predators, much like fireflies and glowworms on land.
• Attraction: The anglerfish, for example, uses a glowing lure to attract prey in deep waters.
• Communication: Certain marine animals utilize bioluminescence to signal to others of their kind.

The Dark Side of Bioluminescence: Red Tide

Not all bioluminescence is harmless. Some algae, such as those causing red tide, produce harmful algal blooms. These blooms release neurotoxins that can poison marine life and contaminate shellfish, leading to paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) in humans. Red tide is triggered by:

• Nutrient runoff from land
• Warming ocean temperatures
• Stagnant water conditions preventing proper circulation

As climate change continues to impact oceanic conditions, harmful algal blooms are becoming more frequent, posing risks to both ecosystems and human health.

Experiencing Bioluminescence

Whether you witness it while kayaking in Telegraph Cove or see a pod of dolphins glowing in the dark waters, bioluminescence is a truly magical experience. If you ever get the chance, dip your hands or paddle into the water and watch as nature’s living light show unfolds before your eyes! Learn more about Bioluminescence in our area on the Prince of Whales PODcast: