Looking to glow this summer? You’re in luck.
Bioluminescence season is upon us. The season can start as early as late May or June, but the best time to see bioluminescent waters in Florida are the months of July and August, due to the warmer water temperatures, says Bioluminescence In Florida.
Bioluminescence results when a chemical reaction within a living thing produces light, creating a glow effect. Bioluminescent organisms are found in the ocean and on land. For instance, certain bioluminescent fish, bacteria, jellyfish and algae are marine life, while fireflies and certain fungi are land organisms.
Here’s where you can observe these creatures firsthand near Jacksonville, and throughout Florida.
What time of year is best to see bioluminescence in Florida?
The peak months to see bioluminescence in Florida are July and August, according to Bioluminescence In Florida.
Though it is still visible from May to October, summer is the best time due to the warmer water temperatures, which enhance visibility.
Where can you see bioluminescence in Florida?
There are several places you can see bioluminescence in Florida, especially on the state’s Space Coast.
Popular places to see bioluminescence from in Florida include:
Is there bioluminescence in St. Augustine, Florida?
Guana Lake in Ponte Vedra Beach, located just north of St. Augustine on A1A, offers bioluminescence sights all year long, according to GeoTrippin’.
You can see these bioluminescent sea creatures via kayak tours:
Can you swim in bioluminescent water in Florida?
“Some bioluminescent algae produce toxins that are harmful to marine wildlife, humans, and anything that comes in contact with them, so it may not be safe to touch the algae or swim in bioluminescent water,” according to WebMD.
What is bioluminescence?
Bioluminescence is the light produced by a chemical reaction from within certain organisms, including fireflies, jellies and dinoflagellates, which are similar to plankton.
The reaction that makes bioluminescence needs two chemicals : luciferin (which produces light) and either luciferase or photoprotein. The bioluminescent color comes from the arrangement of luciferin molecules, according to National Geographic.
Tips before you go on a a bioluminescence tour
Here are some tips before booking a bioluminescence tour in Florida, as outlined by Visit Space Coast.
This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Where to find the best Florida bioluminescence beaches, lakes and parks
Reporting by Ashley Ferrer, USA TODAY NETWORK – Florida / Florida Times-Union
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
