Foxfire

Foxfire

Foxfire, also sometimes referred to as "fairy fire", is the bioluminescence created by some species of fungi present in decaying wood. The bluish green glow is attributed to luciferase, an oxidizing agent, which emits light as it reacts with luciferin. Although the purpose is unknown, it is widely believed that the light is meant to attract insects to spread its spores or, to act as a warning to hungry animals, similar to the bright colors exhibited by some poisonous or unpalatable species of animals. Although generally very dim, in some cases the illumination may be bright enough to read by.

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