Bioluminescence can be mechanically stimulated by stirring or bubbling, chemically stimulated by an acid solution, and also stimulated by ultrasound. Most dinoflagellates can be cultured in the laboratory. All it takes are some starter cells, the proper nutrients, and light. Laboratory cultures are usually grown in a temperature controlled chamber with a defined light cycle. By adjusting the timing of when the dark phase starts, the cells can be conveniently used in laboratory experiments.
Dinoflagellates are the most common sources of bioluminescence in the surface waters of the ocean.
The light displays created by breaking waves, swimming fish, or boats are mainly due to dinoflagellates. The taxonomic composition of luminescent dinoflagellates will vary with location and time. In the spring, the warmer temperatures and longer days allows cysts to excyst, forming motile cells once again. During the May 1997 red tide of Gonyaulax polyedra in southern California, beautiful displays of bioluminescence occurred in breaking waves. In Puerto Rico, the dinoflagellate bioluminescence is particulary impressive.