Bioluminescent Wave Lab simulates the natural phenomenon of bioluminescent plankton — dinoflagellates that emit blue-green light when disturbed by wave motion. This 'red tide' bioluminescence creates ethereal glowing surf lines along coastlines, particularly visible on dark nights.
The shader combines Gerstner wave ocean simulation with curvature-triggered bioluminescent emission. Waves are modeled using superposed Gerstner wave equations that produce realistic ocean surface motion with proper trochoid shapes. Where wave curvature is highest (at breaking crests and areas of turbulent disturbance), bioluminescent organisms are agitated and emit cyan-blue light. Foam accumulates at wave crests and shoreline impact zones.
The scene renders a dark nighttime ocean with the horizon line, where the only illumination comes from the plankton glow and subtle moonlight. Interactive controls adjust wave height, frequency, bioluminescence intensity, and foam density.