Incredible disco clam gives pulsating light show to deter predators
The disco clam is an aptly named creature that appears to be generating electricity in pulsating waves. It gives off the appearance of a light show that is mesmerizing and fascinating to watch. The light comes from thin bands along the outer surface of the clam when it is open.
But the truth is that the clam does not generate electricity, and it does not even generate light. This is not an example of bioluminescence. The thin bands are reflective tissue that are merely reflecting the light that is already present. The clam is able to expose and hide the thin band of reflective tissue very quickly. These tissues consist of nano-spheres made of silica. The appearance that this presents is reflection of light, alternating with red tissue in a rapid fashion. To the human eye, or the eye of a predator, this appears to be flashing light or even electricity that warns the predator to stay away and avoid contact.
The clam is able to reflect sunlight, or lights from a scuba diver's camera. This is an incredible and unique adaptation that is very effective as a survival tool. Nature provides many creatures of the ocean with the tools to create a defence. The variations of these mechanisms inspire awe and wonder. There are more mysteries in the ocean than we have answers for. We are only beginning to understand the complexity of life under the waves.
-
1:49
WildCreatures
13 days ago $0.39 earnedThe Absolute Beauty of Indonesian Rice Fields From the Air
3.74K5 -
LIVE
CHiLi XDD
3 hours ago[D2] Onslaught Grind w/ Some PvP before Final Shape
410 watching -
2:45
Chicks in the Office
2 hours agoHolly Madison Talks Reconciliation with Kendra Wilkinson
5.25K10 -
LIVE
Di bear
4 hours agoFinal Season Mission, Pantheon | Destiny 2
836 watching -
LIVE
SquallRush
6 hours agoAthenian Rhapsody!
567 watching -
1:47:01
Real Coffee With Scott Adams
4 hours agoEpisode 2492 CWSA 06/01/24
17K30 -
DVR
LFA TV
5 hours ago| WHISTLE BLOWERS 6.01.24 12pm EST
11.8K5 -
1:13:59
Tactical Advisor
3 hours agoVault Room Tour/Unboxing- Vault Room Live Stream
13K2 -
1:11:28
The Squad
9 hours agoArsenal's Huge Summer🚨Olise to Man Utd DEAL✅ Osimhen to Arsenal or Chelsea☑️ UCL Final Preview
23.9K6 -
56:23
Trumpet Daily
23 hours ago $1.10 earnedCohen Is Free to Lie and Steal, but Trump Is Guilty of Something - Trumpet Daily | May 31, 2024
15.8K30