Firefly Squid of Toyama Bay
Walking along Toyama Bay in the central Japan Sea at night can be an amazing experience for some. From March to June each year, massive numbers of a bioluminescent species of squid litter the shoreline, creating a mystical, sparkling blue trail.
Measuring only 3 inches long, the Firefly Squid (Watasenia scintillans) emits light to attract prey to feed on as well as mates during mating season. They use a special light-emitting organ called the photophore, which can be found throughout the squid’s body allowing them to be easily distinguished by beachcombers at night. They are usually found 600-1200 meters below the sea, but due to strong waves during the season, they are washed into the shore.
The mating and breeding season of the Firefly Squid occurs from March to June every year. During this season, millions of squid gather at Toyama Bay to fertilize and drop their eggs in the sand. At the same time, many tourists flock the Bay for the extraordinary lightshow. Besides being a popular tourist attraction, Firefly Squid is also considered a delicacy in Toyama.
Source: Wikipedia | Amusing Planet
