The bioluminescence can be produced from compounds during the digestion of prey, from specialized mitochondrial cells in the organism called photocytes ("light producing" cells), or, similarly, associated with symbiotic bacteria in the organism that are cultured.^{[citation needed]}

The character of photophores is important in the identification of deep sea fishes. Photophores on fish are used for attracting food or for camouflage from predators by counter-illumination.^{[citation needed]}

Photophores are found on some cephalopods including the firefly squid, which can create impressive light displays, as well as numerous other deep sea organisms, such as the pocket shark Mollisquama mississippiensis and the strawberry squid.^[1]^[2]

Photophore examples in nature

Arrangement of various photophores on the squid Lycoteuthis lorigera.
Photophores on a lanternfish, the most common deep sea fish worldwide.
This anglerfish has a dorsal fin whose first ray has become very long and is tipped with a luminous photophore fishing lure.

Mechanism

See also