Fighting Pollution with Bioluminescence

According to the New York Times, Dr. Edith Widder has been fighting pollution with nature. Certain fish at the bottom of the ocean rely on bioluminescence to attract mates and survive. She uses this chemical to measure pollutants in certain rivers. Measuring the level of sediments gives scientists, like herself, a better understanding of the rivers health, even more so than measuring the chemicals. Here is an amazing quote by her, “It’s my belief if we can make pollution visible, and let people know what small things they are doing are actually making an improvement in this incredible environment,” she said, “I think it could make a huge difference. It can be a game-changer.”

- This article ties in with our discussion about global warming and pollution.

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/20/science/a-pollution-fight-powered-by-bioluminescent-sea-creatures.html?_r=1&ref=science