Watch Light Talks

Light Talks is a visually stunning and thought-provoking series from Smithsonian Earth that explores the hidden world of bioluminescence. This awe-inspiring natural phenomenon is something that most of us have seen at some point in our lives - whether it's the glow of fireflies on a summer evening, the shimmering waves of a bioluminescent bay, or the eerie blue-green light of a jellyfish. But what exactly is bioluminescence, and how does it work?

In each episode of Light Talks, host and natural history filmmaker Clyde Roper takes us on a journey to different parts of the world to uncover the secrets of bioluminescence. Along the way, we meet a variety of fascinating creatures - from the tiny plankton that light up the ocean at night, to the deep sea fish that produce their own light in order to attract prey or communicate with other members of their species.

One of the most impressive things about Light Talks is the sheer diversity of bioluminescent organisms that it covers. We see glowing mushrooms in the forests of Brazil, luminous parasites that infect insects in the Amazon rainforest, and incredible displays of bioluminescence in the waters off the coast of Japan. We even get to witness the bizarre mating rituals of certain deep sea creatures, which involve flashing patterns of light in order to attract mates.

But Light Talks isn't just about showcasing the beauty of bioluminescence - it's also a deep dive into the science behind this incredible phenomenon. Roper and his team of experts explain the chemical processes that produce light inside bioluminescent organisms, as well as the evolutionary reasons why certain creatures have evolved this ability. We learn about the different types of bioluminescence - including the rare and mysterious red bioluminescence found in some deep sea creatures - and we get a glimpse into the groundbreaking research that's being done to better understand this phenomenon.

Perhaps one of the most fascinating aspects of Light Talks is the way in which it explores the cultural significance of bioluminescence. Throughout history, humans have been captivated by the glow of bioluminescent organisms - and in some cultures, these organisms have even been worshipped as divine beings. We hear about the role that bioluminescence has played in folklore and mythology around the world, and we see how these ancient beliefs still influence the way that people interact with bioluminescent creatures today.

Throughout its six episodes, Light Talks manages to be both informative and entertaining. It's a feast for the eyes, thanks to its stunning visuals and clever use of time-lapse photography and other visual effects. But it's also a show that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the complexity and beauty of the natural world. Whether you're a biology buff or simply a lover of nature documentaries, Light Talks is a series that you won't want to miss.

Light Talks is a series that ran for 2 seasons (18 episodes) between November 3, 2015 and on Smithsonian Earth