Bioluminescent millipedes

Bioluminescent millipedes - Bioluminescence is the ability of an organism to generate its own light. Numerous functions have been proposed for the 40 or more independent origins of bioluminescence, for example mate recognition, prey attraction, camouflage, and warning coloration. Millipedes in the genus Motyxia, only known from California, emit a blue-green bioluminescence. These detritivores are defended with cyanide, which they ooze from the sides of their bodies. Motyxia are blind and...