Bioluminescent fireworms light up ocean in Long Beach, video shows

LONG BEACH, Calif. (KABC) -- Mysterious glowing sea creatures were caught on video in Long Beach - for only the second time ever.

Experts say the bioluminescent fireworms rise from the seabed during certain moon phases to spawn at the surface.

The females swim in circles, lighting up a mucus trail that attracts the males. The rare spectacle only lasts for about 30 minutes.

Following the mating ritual, the worms return to the sea floor to build a tube that they live in until the next moon cycle.