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What Is Bioluminescence?
When a living organism produces and emits light, this is called bioluminescence. Light is generated in a chemical reaction that changes chemical energy to light energy. The chemical luciferin reacts with oxygen to produce light. Bioluminescence should not be confused with phosphorescence. Phosphorescent organisms glow, but they do not produce the light themselves. They absorb energy and as the energy is released the organism gives off light. But once the excess energy is gone the glow stops.
Bioluminescent Organisms
Bioluminescent organisms are almost exclusively found in the oceans and other bodies of saltwater, there are very few examples found on dry land or in freshwater. Bioluminescent fish are found mostly at the lower depths where sunlight doesn't penetrate. Bioluminescent algae are responsible for much of the glow seen from land, visible as they float at the ocean surface. Some of the few land-based organisms are fireflies, glow worms and some fungi.
Uses of Bioluminescence
Organisms that have bioluminescence use it for many purposes. One use is camouflage. In the sea, organisms that glow can blend in with the light coming from above and be invisible to predators below. Another use is attracting prey. Smaller fish are drawn to the light given off by their larger predators. Fireflies luminesce to attract mates. Some bacteria use bioluminescence to communicate.
Bioluminescense and Plants
The purpose of bioluminescent plants would be a practical one; getting the plants to glow when they need water. A side effect is the aesthetic value some would find in having a glowing plant. There are bioluminescent algae and fungi, but these are not plants, as they don't possess leaves and fungi don't make chlorophyll.