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Dark matters: the origins of bioluminescence Jean-François Rees* Animal Biology Unit, University of Louvain, Croix du Sud 4, 1348 Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium      *(reesjf@bani.ucl.ac.be) The evolutionary origins of bioluminescence systems have always puzzled observers. More than 30 independent emergence of luminescent systems occurred in the course of the evolution suggesting that producing light of biologically significant value is easy. However, no sensu stricto freshwater bioluminescent organisms are known, the terrestrial environment accommodates a moderate numbers of luminous forms while the marine environment is enlighten by an amazing variety of bioluminescent organisms. Also, bioluminescence is not known among plants while it is found in monera, fungi and animals. How can the distribution pattern of bioluminescence be explained? What biochemical, ecological and physiological factors were required for the emergence of protobioluminescent forms and their subsequent evolution towards extant bioluminescent organisms? This presentation will attempt to answer these fundamental questions and envisage experimental approaches. [Talk: rees.jeanfr.43321]

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