Definition

A type of protein found in some jellyfish that glows in the dark when it comes into contact with calcium ions.

Example

Researchers studied aequorin to understand its role in bioluminescence in jellyfish.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of aequorin?

Yeah, isn't it that protein from jellyfish that glows in the dark?

Exactly! It reacts with calcium ions to produce light.

That's so cool! I'd love to learn more about how it works.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Aequorin** → The word 'aequorin' is derived from the Latin 'aequor' (meaning sea or level surface) and the suffix '-in' (commonly used in chemistry to denote substances). Aequorin is a protein originally found in the jellyfish, which emits light in the presence of calcium ions, thus relating to its marine origin.

Memory Tip

Think of 'aequor' meaning sea, and remember that 'aequorin' is a substance found in jellyfish from the sea that glows.

Visually Confused Words