Ultraviolet radiation is an invisible but omnipresent form of light that falls between wavelengths of approximately 400 nanometers to 10 nanometers, corresponding to frequencies ranging from 7.5 × 10^14 Hz to 3 × 10^16 Hz. UV light possesses higher energy than visible light and can cause substances to glow or fluoresce.

Specifically, ultraviolet light (UVB) plays a crucial role in the production of vitamin D in most terrestrial vertebrates, including humans. While serving as a vital source of life, UV radiation can also pose dangers, leading to sunburn if exposed for prolonged periods without protection. Given that UV light wavelengths are outside the visible spectrum for humans, it is important to be mindful of this powerful energy source.

In underwater environments, certain marine invertebrates, such as corals (Scleractinia and Alcyonacea), exhibit fluorescence. These corals contain fluorescent proteins that can absorb UV light and emit it in visible forms, manifesting in various colors like greens, reds, oranges, and pinks. This fluorescence serves as a means for corals to protect themselves from excessive UV radiation and can also aid in attracting symbiotic algae that provide essential nutrients through photosynthesis.

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