# DeepSea'Nnovation: A Deep Sea Camera to Study Bioluminescence In Situ

Séverine Martini, Carl Gojak, Didier Louber, Karim Mahiouz, Bernard

Puigserver, Maxime Ferrera

► To cite this version:

Séverine Martini, Carl Gojak, Didier Louber, Karim Mahiouz, Bernard Puigserver, et al. DeepSea'Nnovation: A Deep Sea Camera to Study Bioluminescence In Situ. OCEANS 2025 Brest Conference, Jun 2025, Brest, France. pp.1-4, 10.1109/OCEANS58557.2025.11104525. http://05304258

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# DeepSea'Nnovation: a deep sea camera to study bioluminescence in situ

1st Martini Séverine

Aix Marseille Univ, Université de Toulon,
CNRS, IRD, MIO,
Marseille, France

severine.martini@mio.osupytheas.fr

2nd Gojak Carl

Division Technique de L'INSU,
UAR CNRS 855,

La Seyne-sur-Mer, France

carl.gojak@cnrs.fr

3rd Louber Didier

Division Technique de L'INSU,
UAR CNRS 855,

La Seyne-sur-Mer, France

didier.louber@cnrs.fr

4rd Mahiouz Karim

Division Technique de L'INSU,
UAR CNRS 855,

La Seyne-sur-Mer, France

karim.mahiouz@cnrs.fr

5th Puigserver Bernard

SM, RI French Oceanographic Fleet,
Ifremer,

F-83500 La Seyne-sur-Mer, France

bernard.puigserver@ifremer.fr

6th Ferrera Maxime

SM, RI French Oceanographic Fleet,
Ifremer,

F-83500 La Seyne-sur-Mer, France

maxime.ferrera@ifremer.fr

**Abstract**—Bioluminescence, the production and emission of light by organisms themselves in the ocean, is a widely distributed capability of organisms that could be used as a proxy of the presence of organisms, as well as to understand ecological function of such light emission. Thanks to advances in low-light imaging technology in recent years, ROVs and submarine vehicles have offered access to *in situ* observation of organisms and their bioluminescence emission patterns. Despite existing technology, today the number of observations, records and reported bioluminescence images *in situ* remains rare in the world. The DeepSea'Nnovation project therefore proposes the implementation of a low-light sensitive camera dedicated to bioluminescence observation on underwater vehicles of the French fleet "Flotte Océanographique Française" (FOF).

**Index Terms**—bioluminescence, imaging, deep ocean, technology

## I. INTRODUCTION

The ocean below 200 m depth accounts for 80% of the ocean volume. Despite being the largest ecosystem on Earth, it remains the least known on the planet. However, its importance and the many discoveries it has in store are undeniable. The deep sea supports high biodiversity, including many undiscovered species, and is crucial for ecosystem functioning and efficiency [1]. Part of the biogenic carbon flows will be sequestered in the deep ocean, on millennia-long time scales, thus having a major impact on our understanding of global change [2]. Its functioning, spatiotemporal variability, and unique biodiversity remain poorly understood, due to logistical constraints of sampling and *in situ* observations in an environment with extreme conditions. Marine organisms live under high pressure related to depth and the light decreases exponentially with depth. In the ocean, the distribution of communities is largely influenced by light; beyond a few hundred meters and at night on the surface, light is only residual. In this dim light ecosystem, most organisms possess

the ability to emit their own light through a chemical reaction: bioluminescence. In the pelagic environment about 75% of organisms are capable of emitting light [3] while in the benthic environment, it has been quantified that this number decreases to approximately 40% [4].

In this environment, communication and relationships between organisms are based on bioluminescence. For example, the detection of bioluminescent prey increases the capture rates by visual predators [5]. In contrast, some organisms escape predation due to this dazzling light emission. Bioluminescent bacteria attached to particles have been widely argued to influence their degradation via zooplankton, compared to particles lacking these light markers [6]. Consequently, since bioluminescence is involved in trophic relationships from micro- to macroscopic scales, these organisms and their predators play a definite but yet to be quantified role in the biological carbon pump [7]. Despite its preponderance and importance in interspecific and intraspecific interactions, *in situ* observations of such functional traits of marine organisms are extremely rare for almost all species, including those regularly observed and known for their ability to emit light.

This functional trait is a common feature of organisms in taxonomic groups, from bacteria to fish. Hence, through its ubiquity, bioluminescence measurement represents a proxy for the presence and interactions between organisms. This functional trait is known to have an impact on communities making diel migrations [8], thin layers of plankton [9], the organization of communities around eddies [10]. To date, few submersibles are capable of observing and recording these light emissions *in situ*.

Several prototypes of low light cameras have been developed to observe in situ bioluminescence, primarily aimed at capturing bioluminescent events and gathering additional information about the organisms emitting light. This differs
from studies focusing on the detailed bioluminescence patterns
of specific organisms to enhance our understanding of its
ecological significance. An electro-bombarded CMOS (ebC-
MOS) sensor [11] was deployed at a depth of 2500 m for
several months, while a scientific complementary-metal-oxide-
semiconductor (sCMOS) microscopy camera has been used on
various underwater vehicles across different oceanic regions,
reaching depths of 2500 m [12]. Additionally, the development
of in situ cameras has been accompanied by advancements in
image data analysis [13], [14].

Some dedicated scientific missions with low-light sensi-
tive cameras implemented on ROVs (Bioluminescence 2009
Expedition, NOAA-Ocean Exploration, Bioluminescence and
vision on the deep seafloor 2015, NOAA-Ocean Exploration,
MBARI Bioluminescence expeditions 2019, 2020) provide
images to answer scientific questions [15], [16]. These rare
direct observations of often astonishing light patterns are
essential to understand the ecological role of bioluminescence.
The recent technological development of high-sensitivity low-
light cameras has opened up new opportunities for observation.

Alongside advances in low-light imaging technology, pro-
tocols for bioluminescence observation have been developed
[4], [16]. Previous studies indicate that deep-sea organisms
are sensitive to specific wavelengths of light emission, which
can influence their behavior. The use of red wavelengths may
reduce the disturbance caused by an approaching underwater
vehicle, minimizing its impact on the organisms observed [17],
and consequently improve our ability to study bioluminescent
life while reducing artificial disruptions to their natural envi-
ronment. However, such effects are contrasted in other studies
[18] and *in situ* observations of light effects on organisms
behavior remain necessary.

Images of bioluminescence have made possible i) to observe
previously unknown behaviors, ii) to obtain high-definition
images that can be used as a basis for genuine scientific
research (until now, the definition of the images restricted their
interpretation), iii) to understand ecological links only deduced
from observing species in the laboratory, iv) to hypothesize on
the potential impacts of bioluminescence in the deep ocean
biome, v) to enhance and raise awareness among the general
public of a heritage linked to the deep ocean.

ROVs and submarine vehicles offer the possibility of an-
swering the scientific questions mentioned above, thanks to
advances in low-light imaging technology over the last 10
years. Today, the possibility of observing and recording bi-
oluminescence images *in situ* remains rare in the world. The
DeepSea'Nnovation project goal [19] is to acquire and develop
advanced scientific equipment for the "Flotte Océanographique
Française (FOF)" deep-sea vehicles, thereby enhancing capa-
bilities in data acquisition, observation, sampling, and explo-
ration methodologies in deep marine environments. Within this
project, one objective is therefore to propose the implementa-
tion on Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROV and Hybrid-ROV),
and submarine of a low-light sensitive camera dedicated to
recording bioluminescence *in situ*.

A. *Objectives and challenges*

The implementation of a low-light camera aims to capture
the bioluminescence emitted by organisms at distances ranging
from a few to several centimeters. This requires an extremely
sensitive imaging system capable of detecting low-intensity
light of bioluminescence without artificial illumination that
could obscure it. The system must be compact and lightweight,
featuring a large aperture lens to maximize light capture and
minimize underwater optical distortion. In addition, image or
vehicle stabilization is necessary to ensure clear recordings in
dynamic underwater conditions. To operate at extreme depths
of up to 6000 meters, the camera must be housed in a high-
pressure-resistant enclosure while addressing condensation is-
sues inside the housing. Real-time monitoring, recording, and
piloting of the underwater vehicle is also essential, and in some
cases light bait signals may be used to study effects of multiple
wavelengths on bioluminescent organisms, observe organisms
with their bioluminescent patterns or light-up fluorescence.

B. *Imaging system*

A CANON ML-105 EF camera (https://canon-cmos-sensors.com/canon-ml-105-industrial-camera/, access on March 2025) was chosen for its minimized size (76 x 76 x 112 mm) and weight (775 g) in a convenient form factor, its high resolution (1920 x 1080), and about 2,07 million pixels (Fig. 1). The camera housing is designed by DT-INSU/Ifremer (size of approximately 340 x 136 mm excluding connectors) and provided by KUM (https://www.kum-kiel.de/). A flat dome with a corrected lens has been implemented to minimize the distorsion underwater.

The choice of lens being limited by its size, a 50 mm lens (CANON EF 50 mm f/1.2 L USM) respects both the space and scientific constraints. The total weight in air is approximately 12 kg for a weight in water of 7 kg. The video signal is HD-SDI on 75 Ohm coaxial cable.

C. *Light system*

The torch consists of a TA6V titanium base equipped with a
flat porthole that allows the integration of multicolored LEDs
(Fig. 2). The diameter of the torch is 120 mm on the porthole
side (80 mm on the titanium lower part), for a total length of
95 mm without connector (Fig. 2-A). The weight in air is 2
kg for an estimated weight in water of 1.5 kg. A clamping
system is developed for each underwater vehicle. The torch
is accompanied by a power electronics tube of 100 mm in
diameter x 250 mm long. The torch is powered by 48 Volt
continuous for a power of 120 Watt Max.

Multicolor lighting provides multi-wavelength illumination using three types of LED (Fig. 2-B). The first type is an “OSRAM LZP-00MD00” multicolor LED, providing red (623 nm), green (523 nm), blue (457 nm) and cool white light. The torch is equipped with 6 LEDs of this type. This gives a maximum brightness of 5600 Lumens in red, 6800 Lumens in green, 2500 Lumens in blue, and 11800 Lumens in white. The second type is an “OSRAM LZ-00UVOR” UV LED for
<figure><img src="image_2.png" /><figcaption>Fig. 1. A) Camera CANON ML-105 EF and lens CANON EF 50 mm f/1.2 L USM on bench. The compact size, shape and low weight of both camera and lens are well adapted for deployment on an underwater vehicle. B) Mechanical design for the implementation of the camera and lens in the housing. The lens optical correction design and distorsion is represented by black lines.</figcaption></figure>

UV illumination (365 nm). The radiation flux per LED is 1360 mW. The torch is equipped with 12 LEDs of this type. The third type is a “Cree LED XEGACY-H0” for cyan light (500 nm). The torch is equipped with six LEDs of this type, providing a maximum luminosity of 1000 Lumens (Fig. 2-C).

The illumination angle of the torch is between 100° and 120°, depending on the wavelength. The LED drive electronic system is based on an electronic circuit 'Analog Devices LT3756'. The intensity is gradually dimmed for each color. A microcontroller enables this adjustment to be made using pulse width modulation (PWM).

### D. Underwater vehicles integration

In order to be integrated on underwater vehicles (including ROV, H-ROV and submarine), environmental constraints are as follows: maximal immersion (6000 m - 625 bars), temperature underwater (-2°C up to +35°C), air temperature (-20°C à +50°C), resistance to marine conditions and underwater deployments (titan TA6V). For scientific objectives, the camera must allow a view in open water, on vertical walls, and on the

<figure><img src="image_3.png" /><figcaption>Fig. 2. A) Mechanical design and size of the torch to improve in situ observations of organisms associated with bioluminescence, and behavior to light emission. B) Torch before assemblage, C) Torch LEDs for UV, white and red LEDs.</figcaption></figure>

bottom. This implies at least vertical movements and therefore a mounting on tilt at least (or pan&tilt).

## III. DISCUSSION

The installation of a high-sensitivity camera on an ROV capable of reaching depths of 6,000 m is of great interest for the study of underwater bioluminescence. ROVs and submarines allow exploration of unreachable areas and real-time observations. For observation near underwater canyons, hydrothermal vents, or in benthic environments in general, manipulation by the ROV's arms is an advantage in order to be able to sample potentially bioluminescent organisms.
Implementation of this camera is not as effective on Au-
tonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) due to the need for
direct observation to obtain a precise video of the organism
(focus on the organism, brightness in the red range suitable
for recording light, minimal disturbance of the animal to
obtain an image of the complete bioluminescence pattern).
Implementing imaging on an AUV-type vehicle would only
allow for light flashes, without the possibility of observing
the link with an ecological function of bioluminescence or
establishing a link between the organism and its ability to emit
this light. High-sensitivity cameras technology associated with
ROV and submarine makes it possible to observe otherwise
invisible light phenomena, offering new perspectives on the
abyssal ecosystem and its biological interactions. However,
capturing these biological signals requires expert piloting to
keep organisms within the camera's field of view, despite
currents and species mobility. The system's adaptability is also
essential: it must allow the camera to be oriented towards
the bottom to explore the benthos or towards canyon walls
to analyze vertical habitats, as well as in the water column.

The integration of several sensors is a major asset: combin-
ing the camera with an echo sounder, a zooplankton imag-
ing system, a sampling hand, and fauna collection devices
will allow for a more comprehensive approach of the deep
ecosystems. These integrated missions offer a better view of
the biological community by combining in situ observations
and laboratory analyses. Additionally, managing the ROV's
lighting is crucial to avoid disturbing the organisms and de-
crease disturbance from light emission. By overcoming these
technical challenges, these cameras and multisensor systems
pave the way for a more detailed understanding of ecology,
behaviors, and functional traits in deep-sea environments.

Finally, cameras dedicated to bioluminescence observation
are an innovative tool for accessing new scientific observations
and seeing the pattern of light emitted by one organism.
Such technology is only complementary to quantitative sensors
(such as photomultipliers) which can record the light emission
of bioluminescence, its dynamic over time, detect biolumi-
nescence emission into a large volume and at wide spatio-
temporal scales.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

This work benefited from state financial support managed by
the National Research Agency (“Programme d’Investissements
d’Avenir” from France 2030), bearing the reference ANR-21-
ESRE-0042. The plans, schematics, software, and instrumental
realizations within the framework of the DeepSea’Nnovation
project were made with the support of the Technical Division
of the Institut National des Sciences de l’Univers (INSU) of
the Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS). SM
thanks SHD Haddock and S Johnsen for their valuable advice
and sharing their in situ experience at the beginning of the
project.

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