Raini Rippy

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April 10, 2009
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Extension Spotlight: Shedding light on the wonders of bioluminescence

Spring is in the air and it won't be long before camping season is in full swing. Here's something to think about while you are telling spooky stories around the campfire. Have you heard of foxfire, faerie fire and will-o'-the-wisp? These terms often refer to fungal bioluminescence, a biochemical reaction in which chemical energy is converted into light energy. The word 'foxfire' is derived from French 'faux fire,' or false fire. In simple terms, bioluminescence is "living light." It is a cold light, producing no heat. You are probably most familiar with this reaction in fireflies. There are also bioluminescent …

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The News-Review Updated Aug 15, 2012 06:44PM Published Apr 10, 2009 06:42PM Copyright 2009 The News-Review. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.