Characterization of acetylcholine-induced luminescence in Amphipholis squamata (Echinodermata : Ophiuroidea)

Amphipholis squamata is a luminescent polychromatic ophiuroid species. The population from Normandy (France) exhibits six different coloration patterns (orange, beige, dark brown, grey, spotted and black). Each variety of ophiuroid exhibits a different pattern and intensity of luminescence as induced by acetylcholine. The luminescence of dark brown and of black specimens was investigated over six months. A significantly higher intensity of luminescence was observed in February for both varieties.