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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Science
Chris Baraniuk

Bioluminescent algae’s blue light harnessed to make 3D-printed shapes

People observe bioluminescent algae glowing in Roskilde Fjord, Denmark at night
People gather at Veddelev beach on Roskilde fjord in Denmark to observe the phenomenon of bioluminescence. Photograph: Mads Claus Rasmussen/EPA

The captivating blue glow emitted by a sea-dwelling species of algae has been harnessed by scientists in the US to make light-emitting structures.

Pyrocystis lunula is a bioluminescent single-celled organism that sometimes produces brief flashes of blue light. Large clumps of the algae are known to emit sparkling displays in waves breaking against beaches.

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