UV night diving on Koh Tao is gaining popularity every day. Fluorescence is a phenomenon that occurs when we shine blue, near UV lights on the corals. Some of the corals have a certain protein that absorbs the blue light and re-emits the light in a different wavelength (colour). This causes the corals to glow in the most amazing colours like green, yellow, orange and some even pink or red. Corals that normally appear dull brown in the daytime or under white light can take on vivid rainbow hues.
Using special blue UV light torches and funky yellow visors that go over your normal mask, you’ll see a magical array of psychedelic colours. With glowing coral, sponges, fish, shrimps, crabs and other sea life, you won’t be disappointed. By the way, this is not the bio-luminescence that you see on some night dives – it is only visible using the blue light torches and mask filters. Scuba divers still use normal torches so they can compare the differences.
The phenomenon of coral fluorescence is still full of mystery and the reasons why certain coral fluoresce are unknown. Could it be that the corals are protecting themselves from sunburns and coral bleaching? Does the fluorescence help the corals with photosynthesis in dark places? Do the anemones lure food into their stinging tentacles by attracting them with the fluorescence? What is the reason that a shrimps’ pincers shine a fluorescent yellow? Why does a scorpionfish that does its utmost to blend in with its surroundings emit a bright pink colour under a UV light? Some scientists and researchers speculate that the fish could be communicating through fluorescence. It is truly fascinating and just goes to show that we still have absolutely no idea about the complexities of this ecosystem we play in every day.
Have you done a lot of night dives and you find yourself getting a bit bored? Sounds like it’s time for you to try UV night diving on Koh Tao. Contact us for more information on prices and to reserve your spot on our next night dive!
