An all-new exhibit will shine a light on the incredible natural phenomenon of bioluminescence at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. Creatures of Light: Nature’s Glowing Mysteries showcases the incredible organisms that shine through the darkness – from dense forest to the deepest depths of the ocean, the darkest caves and more.
The new exhibit from the American Museum of Natural History (New York) will open at the Museum’s University Circle location on Friday, September 1.
“’Creatures of Light uncovers the facts behind nature’s glowing mysteries,” says Evalyn Gates, executive director and CEO of the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. “We are excited to bring this incredible exhibition from the American Museum of Natural History to Cleveland.”
In Creatures of Light, visitors will move through a series of re-created environments, from the familiar to the extreme, to explore the diversity of organisms that glow and how they do it; discover the variety of ways in which light is used to attract a mate, lure unsuspecting prey, or defend against a predator; and learn how, where, and why scientists study this amazing natural phenomenon.
“Bioluminescence is light produced by an organism, which is most commonly the result of a chemical reaction,” explains Dr. Gavin Svenson, assistant director of science and curator and head of invertebrate zoology at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. “Although the production of light is physiologically consistent across bioluminescent organisms, the purpose of the light production differs greatly and points to an amazing array of interesting adaptations.”
Bioluminescent organisms are incredibly diverse and use their light in a variety of ways. Some use it for intra-species communication including mating and territory marking. Others use it to attract prey, ward off predators, or sound the alarm. Oversize models, live specimens, and interactive exhibits allow guests to explore these organisms and their habitats in depth, including areas dedicated to forests, caves and aquatic environments.
“Harnessing a chemical reaction to produce light is an astounding achievement for life,” says Dr. Svenson. “It opens entirely unique channels of communication not otherwise possible.”
Creatures of Light runs through Sunday, January 7, 2018 , and is free with museum general admission – $15 for adults, $12 for seniors, $12 for youth ages 3-12 and free for all museum members and children under 3. Tickets and information can be found at the Museum’s website (cmnh.org).
