lux systems are essential, because these two systems respond to different cellular environments. The ain system regulates transcription in response to intermediate cell density cell environments, producing lower levels of luminescence and even regulating metabolic processes like the acetate switch. On the other hand, the lux quorum sensing system occurs in response to high cell density, producing high levels of luminescence and regulating the transcription of other genes, including QsrP, RibB, and AcfA. Both of the ain and lux quorum sensing systems are essential for colonization of the squid and regulate multiple colonization factors in the bacteria. Natural transformation Natural bacterial transformation is an adaptation for transferring DNA from one individual cell to another. Natural transformation, including the uptake and incorporation of exogenous DNA into the recipient genome, has been demonstrated in A. fischeri. This process requires induction by chitohexaose and is likely regulated by genes tfoX and tfoY. Natural transformation of A. fischeri facilitates rapid transfer of mutant genes across strains and provides a useful tool for experimental genetic manipulation in this species. State microbe status In 2014, Hawaiian State Senator Glenn Wakai submitted SB3124 proposing Aliivibrio fischeri as the state microbe of Hawaii. The bill was in competition with a bill to make Flavobacterium akiainvivens the state microbe, but neither passed. In 2017, legislation similar to the original 2013 F. akiainvivens bill was submitted in the Hawaii House of Representatives by Isaac Choy and in the Hawaii Senate by Brian Taniguchi. List of synonyms Achromobacter fischeri (Beijerinck 1889) Bergey et al. 1930 Bacillus fischeri (Beijerinck 1889) Trevisan 1889 Bacterium phosphorescens indigenus (Eisenberg 1891) Chester 1897 Einheimischer leuchtbacillus Fischer 1888 Microspira fischeri (Beijerinck 1889) Chester 1901 Microspira marina (Russell 1892) Migula 1900 Photobacterium fischeri Beijerinck 1889 Vibrio noctiluca Weisglass and Skreb 1963 See also Deep sea fish Marine biology Model organism Vibrio harveyi References External links The Light-Organ Symbiosis of Vibrio fischeri and the Hawaiian squid, Euprymna scolopes Cell-Cell Communication and the lux operon in Vibrio fischeri TED Talks - Bonnie Bassler on how bacteria communicate Vibrionales Bacteria described in 1896 Bioluminescent bacteria Model organisms Symbiosis